This debacle has highlighted the need for the government to regulate the minimum requirements that Qantas must always provide in regards to availability of aircraft to ensure continuity of travel for the Australian public.
More than that. Now is the time to nationalise Qantas. Joyce now thinks he has a green light to dismantle Qantas and will happen very very quickly.
If Qantas was bought out by the government, Jetstar and FF could almost immediately be floated and recoup much of the initial cost. Qantas domestic would return a tidy dividend over the years to come and international restructured (with 777's) to profitability with no subsidising Jetstar.
Engineering excellence would be restored with onshore heavy maintenance ensuring a viable aviation maintenance industry remains in this country.