Union Jack - thanks for the information; Plimsoll Line it is.
So Qantas 767's had no Plimsoll lines and therefore it would be impossible to ascertain their maximum draught whilst floating in the Indian Ocean.
A cunning plan indeed. Never underestimate the breadth of issues airline managers need to consider.
This plan (devious removal of Plimsoll Lines in re-working airline liveries) of course was replicated some years later by another airline, clearly following this brilliant Qantas lead:
Old livery floating, Plimsoll Line validity clearly evident:
http://images3.jetphotos.net/img/1/5...1065535655.jpg
New livery, Cunningly designed to look appealing against a backdrop of smoke:
http://washingtonbureau.typepad.com/.../planefire.jpg