PILOTS TOGETHER
While few areas of the economy have been left untouched by the pandemic, aviators have perhaps had it tougher than most. Tom Batchelor learns more about a pioneering charity that is helping those with clipped wings
Over recent months, Heathrow has recorded just 10% of its usual passenger volume
HEATHROW AIRPORT
More than a year after the outbreak of COVID-19 sent shockwaves through the aviation industry, many aircraft remain grounded, and thousands of pilots are out of work.
Airlines have weathered previous storms, from the September 11 attacks to the 2008 economic crisis, but none have been as devastating as the current turmoil in terms of job losses. Redundant pilots face a series of unique challenges. Not only are they often in a significant amount of debt – with some training routes costing well above £100,000 – but many also face additional and ongoing costs associated with maintaining their qualifications. Failure to keep up training or flying hours can result in licences lapsing.
Working together
Towards the end of 2020 a group of pilots established a charity to support colleagues who had found themselves out of work. Named ‘Pilots Together’, the project aims to help those affected by redundancies on four fronts: financial, career, mental wellbeing and industry promotion. To tackle the first of these, the charity offers help to those who are struggling to pay back training loans and bills. It says there is a “common misconception that all pilots are wealthy and don’t need help... we want to make sure that they are supported.” So far, the charity says it has been able to meet all of the requests for financial assistance from those who have approached the organisation. Applications for assistance are confidential and those who are struggling are encouraged not to delay getting in touch.
Pilots Together chairman, Scott Bateman, said in a note to members in March 2021 that those who meet the criteria for grants should not consider asking for support as a last resort, but as a way of "avoiding falling into the category of significant hardship". He explained that the charity was open to considering grants for day-to-day costs, training, upskilling for another role, or facilitating access to employment, adding: "The list is by no means exhaustive and we would implore you to reach out and discuss any financial support that you may need.”