Bristow Helicopter has announced the sack of over 100 pilots and engineers
The affected workers included both local and expatriates.
The company’s Nigerian pilots had embarked on an indefinite strike on Monday to press home their demand for better remuneration.
The airline blamed the sack on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sector
“The combined effects of these arising has resulted in very significant reductions to our business particularly a reduction in the number of contracted aircraft in Nigeria.
“As a result, the company must now restructure all aspects of its business model (both Rotary & Fixed Wing), including an extensive review of its operations and we continue to drive efficiencies, but with zero compromises to safety and our core values.
“One of these measures includes the right-sizing of the business to ensure that the company has the optimal level of personnel to continue the safe delivery of its services to its clients, whilst allowing the appropriate capacity for future growth.
“Accordingly, and with much regret, the company has taken the very difficult decision to release over 100 pilots and engineers (both national and expatriates) over the next couple of weeks,” Bristow said in a statement on Tuesday.
On Monday, another Nigerian carrier, Air Peace announced the sack of 75 pilots. It also blamed the action on the coronavirus pandemic.