Talking about delays and sorry for the slight thread drift but - The almost fanatical accent on `on-time` push backs invariably results in rushed cockpit checks which is not exactly conducive to the principles of flight safety.
Media published `on-time` figures may impress the self loading suits and bogans, but they don't see the hidden risks involved. Too many times the captain is forced to defend his actions to management if delays occur with management taking the view of the captain is guilty unless later proved innocent. Then the witch-hunt starts.
Everyone involved in the rush for on-time departure is eager to deflect blame back to the captain. I for one would regard the airline with the best `on-time` record as one to be careful about flying with. What vital checks have been missed in the rush...