I think the biggest problem is lack of available alternatives to a PA-31. I had always thought that the people who made the N22/24 would have seen the error of their ways and re-jig the tailplane for more strength or a t-tail assy. Then re-engine with a de-rated PT6 with say 450 to 550shp a side. Better SE performance, STOL and weight carrying ability.
The question remains though. Even if there was a viable alternative aircraft, there doesn't appear to be enough viable operators with long term prospects to even budget for such an aircraft.
Further to the above posts, maybe regulations should be changed to allow a version of an airtaxi service between regionals and capitals. The present regs prohibit the advertising of individual seats on a flight. If that were changed maybe there could be some entrepreneurial types who would invest in VLJs to tap into the market.
Last edited by OZBUSDRIVER; 9th Dec 2005 at 08:05.