Hi piggybank; agree the referenced operating costs seem high. They derive from the ASPI Special Report 21 (Australian Strategic Policy Institute) which embraces some explanation of factors included by DoD Australia. Note therein a figure of $5,755 for a twin-engine Bell 412 provided by a civilian operator. The Huey II figure of $5,000 per flying hour was provided by Bell Helicopter.
Hitherto, Australian defence planners have been seemingly dismissive of aircraft operating costs, no doubt brainwashed by the reckless projected hardware acquisition expenditure endorsed by both main political parties. Comparing operating costs based on common data, multi-role capabilities, hot and high performance of various types; it becomes pretty clear which helos are the best value for money.
Last edited by Bushranger 71; 13th Jan 2011 at 00:52.