Selection of Aircraft Type
One has to give TAA, Ansett and Qantas credit for selection of aircraft purchased from the late 1950's onwards.
Although the Viscount ushered in the gas turbine/jet age it provided the travelling public with a taste of non-piston turbine and pressurised operations despite its design limitations and expensive maintenance costs.
In the mid 50's TAA wanted to introduce the Sud Aviation twin jet Caravelle but that was squashed by Reg Ansett. Also the airlines were under pressure to buy British ie Comet, Trident and Bac1-11. However they held back and waited for the L188 Electra, B707-200 series, B727-100/200 series and DC9-30 and finally the B747-200 series. My research indicates that there were initially tax penalties for purchasing American against British built aircraft but the three airlines stood strong.
It is interesting how Qantas must have watched poor old Panam introduce the first series of B747 aircraft which suffered major problems with the first series of engines, surging etc. until Boeing and Pratt solved the problem. Yeah the two airline policy between Ansett and TAA existed but there must have been discussions between the two airlines to agree on the types.
It appears as if all three operators waited for prototype aircraft to be tested and improved before ordering the types. By the way I am well aware of the initial problems with the L188 Electra, whirl mode and the LEAP program which cost Lockheed a small fortune.
Would be interested in your opinions on this