Bristow Helicopters is to make 15 pilots redundant the pilots union Balpa has revealed.

The British Airline Pilots’ Association (BALPA), said initially that 12 pilots jobs were to go, however it issued an updated statement saying 15 jobs are to be lost.

BALPA has begun urgent negotiations with Bristow Helicopters. It said its focus is on supporting the helicopter community, protecting as many jobs as possible and working to ensure flight safety is not jeopardised.

Mick Brade, BALPA National Officer said: “This announcement by Bristow Helicopters to make pilots redundant comes as a further devastating blow to the professional pilot community in Aberdeen. BALPA reps are working tirelessly to try and protect as many jobs as possible and ensure safety remains a priority. We have already had an initial meeting with the company and our urgent talks are on-going.”

“This is a turbulent time for the North Sea economy that’s been hit hard by the downturn in the oil price.”

“The latest Bristow announcement of the loss of 15 pilot jobs follows hot on the heels of 52 redundancies, including 22 pilot jobs at CHC Helicopters earlier this month and is yet another serious blow to the region as a whole and those personally affected,” BALPA said in a statement.

A Bristow spokesman said: “As a result of the challenges the oil and gas industry is experiencing, the company has announced proposals involving 15 redundancies within our pilot group at Aberdeen.

“We are consulting with our trade unions and employees over these proposals and will do everything we can to support our employees through this difficult process. Our focus remains on providing a safe and efficient service throughout the North Sea.”