Thirty-seven pilots are at risk of losing their jobs at two leading North Sea helicopter firms.

A total of 22 jobs in danger at CHC and another 15 are threatened at Bristow, all based in Aberdeen.

CHC recently decided to stop flying Super Puma helicopters in the wake of a fatal crash in Norway.

A spokeswoman for the British Airline Pilots Association (Balpa) said: "This announcement by Bristow 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."

A CHC spokeswoman said: "We are focussed on conducting a thorough and fair consultation, working with employees and unions and supporting those who are affected.

"The offshore industry continues to face challenging conditions and we, like many other businesses, are having to respond to the current environment.

"Difficult decisions must be made but our customers can be assured that safety remains our top priority."