There seems to be arguments here that are the reverse of what they should be.
Notwithstanding that the RFDS does wonderful work for our Australian community and have a most repectable reputation , there are some basic principles that should apply to aircraft selection for a particular job.
In the airline scene, among other things, you need to look at city pairs, pax numbers, airport capabily etc., and then select the aircraft for the role.
Similarly in the RAAF, the role will dictate radius of action, type of operation (fighter/transport/maritime etc) and then select the aircraft and equipment.
For the RFDS operation the obvious sensitivities are such things as payload – one or more patients – medical support, one or more nurses, many night operations, in-flight diversions – safety issues like one or two pilots etc..
When one considers the money found for the “Pacific solution” for the boat people, couldn’t some be found for the welfare of our own people - crew and passengers?
It would be my conclusion that the RFDS role has expanded and has become more regulated and professional over the years, that it is time to re-assess the aircraft used…………and wouldn’t that start with a two pilot operation?
Just a thought!