In response to WizofAUS
In isolation Dick does have merit in this instance.
The problem is that people, like you, will not let an opprotunity go by to play the man rather than the ball.
Sorry to burst your bubble, but perhaps, some real research should be conducted into the cause of the economic downtown rather than repeating verbatim what you hear on BBC world.
IT IS GOVERNMENT INTERFERENCE IN THE MARKETS THAT CAUSED THIS! not deregulated thinking .When Jimmy Carter (Thats right! nothing to do with Reagan) made it illegal for banks to discriminate when lending on the basis of a persons ability to repay a loan. Yep, give money to pepole who cant afford it, way to go socialists. Why do you think Freddie Mac and Fannie May were set up? Do some research.
Correct, CASA and ASA did not have anything to do with the current financial disaster. However, government regulation directly distorts the finanacial viability of any industry.The current global economic situation is a perfect example of this, again, do some research.
And why has government divestment in certain areas had a negative impact?
Simple, lack of competition. The industry costs are so high that is not competitive with other modes of transport. It discourages entrants into the market. Australia should be a world leader in aviation rather than a backwater.
Further,
1. The sell off of Australian Airports was the extension of a policy from the 1950's in which the government had already determined that it could not afford to directly maintain the infrastructure. If the community considered this piece of infrastructure so vital, do you really think that these airfields would be under threat? Perhaps a bit of proactivity, such as the efforts to save Essendon Airport ,would highlight the value.
2. ATC and ASA. Again, if you had privatised class D towers, would this free up directly employed ASA staff for other areas? Would this allow controllers who exited the industry to re enter on their terms?
Perhaps an industry group, other than the Civil Air, that can assist in bringing to bear long term pressure might actually effect some change, with respect to ATC. Hang on, thats right, the pilot group is too fickle to unite in anything other than a whinge session in the crew room.
How does the US health care system, Ansett or any other of those poor arguments relate to the RFF? Answer, it doesnt. Straw man argument.
"But the major point is" that reform is not only necessary but pivotal in the survival of the Australian aviation industry. Whether you agree with Dick or not, the reform process stalled after he left, so perhaps you should ensure the accuracy of you remarks.
"If nothing else" your post highlights the vailidity of an effective flight and duty schedule.
I dont always agree with Dick, but it dissapointing to see ill informed and inaccurate drivel served up everytime he makes a comment.