Seriously R555C where do you think the operators will find the money to miraculously buy brand new aircraft. Sure there is money to be saved by having newer machinery but the acquisition costs would be prohibitive.
"Running their business properly" also gets back to money, I am in no way defending them but it all gets back to supply and demand. If they were to pay their pilots top dollar and buy brand new aircraft how many passengers would be going for joyflights at $1000 an hour!?
Anyway, back on topic. As I will be doing this exact same path in a year Ellsworth I am keen to see how you go.