80 Aberdeen jobs at risk in Bmi shake-up

Airline Investments Limited (AIL), the new holding company for Bmi Regional and Loganair, has warned that 80 jobs are at risk in Aberdeen as it switches engineering facilities to Bristol.

AIL said 80 Bmi engineering roles were at risk in Aberdeen

AIL said it plans to acquire hangar space at Bristol Airport for Bmi Regional jets, while Loganair would take over the current Bmi hangar at Aberdeen Airport.

While the group said the overhaul would have no impact on Loganair staff, routes or frequency, about 80 Aberdeen-based jobs could be affected.

Chief executive Peter Simpson said: “These proposed changes within the group enhance both sister airlines and offer natural efficiencies and economies of scale that will strengthen both carriers within their home markets. They provide additional infrastructure to continue delivering the highest operational standards.

“Bristol Airport, a hub that has invested £120 million in expansion over the past five years, continues to offer Bmi Regional the necessary capacity for potential future growth.”

He added: “All options will be explored through consultation to minimise impact on positions, but it is possible that an estimated 80 Aberdeen-based roles may be affected as a result of the proposals outlined today.

“The Bmi pilot and cabin crew base at Aberdeen, together with the scheduled services to Bristol, Esbjerg, Norwich and Oslo are unaffected by this announcement.”

Simpson said AIL would offer affected employees the chance to relocate to Bristol, the origin of the majority of Bmi’s routes.

“We recognise that this is an unsettling period for colleagues,” he said.

“The business will offer support throughout the process while implementing this strategic reorganisation which will ensure that Bmi Regional is able to continue to develop its presence in key UK and European markets.”