Helicopter staff strike action over pay under way

Staff at helicopter company Bristow have begun a strike over pay.

The action involves offshore oil and gas flights and search and rescue services on several dates over the next five weeks.

Pilots' union Balpa said it had postponed the strike to allow further talks, but that the company had not come forward with a reasonable offer.

Bristow said it was "disappointed", and urged Balpa to return to the negotiating table.

It said plans were in place for all its customers, including emergency cover for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).

Balpa general secretary Amy Leversidge said: "We've been in negotiations for well over a year and have given the company ample opportunities to listen to its own staff.

"These loyal pilots and technical crew operate in some of the most treacherous and challenging conditions transporting workers to the oil and gas rigs in the North Sea and providing vital search and rescue services."

Bristow said in a statement: "We are disappointed that Balpa is leading their members out on strike action despite receiving an offer which provides significant enhancements to pay and conditions.

"We are calling on Balpa to continue working with us towards a realistic and sustainable solution."

The MCA said: "HM Coastguard has developed contingency plans to ensure search and rescue response across the UK continues.

"It would be inappropriate to comment on the industrial dispute between Bristow and Balpa while discussions remain ongoing."