Shell Management - nobody at Aerogulf has forgotten that accident - read the thread about it in this forum properly to get more insight into it. That could have happened to almost any modern aircraft, and the fact that their aircraft were newer (or had 2 engines, for that matter) didn't help the boys from Cougar or from Bond.
Taking your points - the aircraft may be old, but each Aerogulf machine is stripped down and rebuilt every year. They are like well-loved classic cars! Low spec? All of those used at night are fully IFR equipped, with radalts, radar etc., plus 2 crew and associated equipment. Low performance? The loads were adjusted to cope.
In principle, there is no problem flying at night if the proper procedures are taken. In fact, I don't find it demanding at all. The air is just a different colour!
Are you really from Shell Management? If so, you will know that Shell will use a 212 when it suits them.
Phil
Registered Aviation Consultant