Originally Posted by
Capt Fathom
Sorry. I don’t quite follow. Are you saying that’s the reason people went to PNG? For quick hours and money?
A few went to do god bothering work with the missions. But I think most saw PNG as a good stepping stone to airlines, while saving money. Fortunately, back in the day when airline pilots selected new recruits, there was some respect for the experience gained by PNG flying.
Induction to PNG flying was generally quite rigorous, with route endorsements and in-country experience required before being turned loose on the really challenging airstrips. Considering the hostile environment and hours flown in its heyday, PNG had quite a remarkable safety record.
On an hours flown basis it would be interesting to compare it with today’s GA in Australia.
Nowadays, airline HR selection people with no hands-on flying time value wombats and similarly concocted aptitude tests. Times change.