Revnetwork,
Glad to see you're back mate!
I fully agree about the need for pro-active technology transfer into the aviation sector. But to be fair to the operators, one must consider the monumental challenges of finance with which they must contend, and more creatively.
Overland studied their market well and presented a complete package to the banks. It's no surprise that they got a US EXIM Bank loan to finance their Beechcraft fleet.
There is(was?) the issue of small, weak banks unable to finance the Nigerian airline industry. I think innovations such as above can also rely on a newly consolidated banking sector, able and willing to invest in serious long-term air transport projects.
A major problem with Nigerian airline operators is attitude. Good, professional pesentation is alien to them. Invest a kobo, you get a kobo reputation !
vfenext:
Correction: Boeing 737-700 would afford common manufacturer
benefits. NG cockpit is a another ballpark. excuse my hasty comment
