I believe survey flying is as dangerous as you , or your company , want to make it.
Blasting off in a light twin into a wall of Darwin black clouds on a "must do "charter sounds a lot worse or at FL 200 in a 404 with a "problem".
With a well maintained shrike (used to be), a chief pilot with some kahuna's ( the good ones leave) and lots of experience (most the experienced people left or were sacked), I consider it safe.
I'm not convinced that 210's are safe , isn't there a turbulence penertration speed issue to prevent the wings clapping hands?
Gabilian - with regard to little or no stats
There's been a lot of accident over the years ( a lot just recently) and some important lessons esp regarding flying the hills , for survey crews but no publications , better ask IAGSA that one.
Better stick your feathers in your ears frigatebird , sounds like Lucerne is just getting wound up.
MC