I also forgot to make note of the relatively more important effect that the huge drop in the Australian dollar had Ansett's cost base in the period since 1997.
Whilst Qantas has a bit of a natural hedge in the form of non-AUD income, Ansett had no luxury. This caused a double whammy on fuel prices and lease obligations.
It will be interesting to see if and how Air NZ can extricate itself from Ansett given the letter of comfort in place covering Ansett debt.
I am sure our friendly bankers and lawyers will do their best to see that a clean amputation is not achieved without all the blood from both entities is drained.
The finger pointing will look like an NDB chasing a dozen frequencies at the same time.