It's probably fair to say that most of the older aircraft find their way into third world operations (and Australia may be no different) but provided the right combination of flight crew discipline, maintenance and flight prep procedures are adhered to, good operational reliability can be expected. Statistically the accidents are unrelated but the common factor may be systemically mirrored.
Given an aircraft is not well maintained, the crew not well trained, an event could occur from which the crew cannot recover. The converse would also be true.
e.g.
- engine failure with the second engine operating below margin and unable to continue the take off. Good 2nd engine ensures drag of rudder is overcome and aircraft maintains height.
- engine destruction due to excessive wear and tear resulting in wing tank breach. Regular internal inspections and performance monitoring ensures early loss of performance is picked up in time.
- explosion in a fuel tank due to vapour and arc. Good wiring and regular inspections of the wiring ensures good margin of safety.
- failure of aileron or spoiler control cables due to corrosion resulting in loss of control. Proper inspections for corrosion and fraying, routing etc ensures cables are maintained in good condition.
- rudder control failure resulting in asymmetric flight and unchecked roll. Regular checks for leaks and functional checks as well as incorporation of modifications ensure good reliability.
In fact flying tiger, I think you hit the nail on the head. The industry should be employing more of the older aircraft engineers and pilots because they have valuable experience like that.
