When PC2 was going to expire with the only alternative being PC1, I was a big fan of PC2E. Now that its possible that EU Ops might provide the means to think again, I am not so sure.
We have to look at the big safety picture, and bear in mind that no-one has died from an engine failure during the critical exposure period in an offshore takeoff or landing. However, there have been a number of issues associated with hopelessly inaccurate TAFs, airfields closing unexpectedly, PPR diversion airfields declining to accept mass diversions, massive queues for procedural IFR approaches etc.
So my question is, is the hazard associated with engine failure when taking off or landing offshore greater or less than the hazard associated with flying around with legal minimum fuel most of the time (in order to maximise payload to the client)?
One of the great strides of the EC225 is the ability to carry max passengers and full fuel. It makes for very relaxing and safe operations. With PC2E it would be likely that fuel carried would have to be significantly reduced towards or to the legal minimum. I am not convinced this will improve overall safety.
HC