Sly comment? Do one, throbber. I've lost enough mates and colleagues doing this and come close to it myself more than once, so dry your eyes.
Fact is, there isn't enough work at home to absorb 70 odd crew at the moment. Perhaps if things pick up that may change, but right now there are guys out there busting themselves to take care of their families because the prospects in SA are not good. Unfortunately, SA contract companies tender lower than most by screwing crews on basic pay and per diems, not to mention dodgier accommodation and conditions.
Hopefully this tragic event will be a wake up call, and it may well lead to change in the short term. Human nature being what it is, the long term prospects will just be eroded once more the minute the pressure is off, and the next batch of guys willing to fly for peanuts roll up with their brand new McRatings.
Edited to add:- FYI, most of Africa is a war zone to some extent or another. Guaranteeing your safety just about anywhere on the continent, including SA, is just not possible.
Last edited by Solid Rust Twotter; 20th Sep 2012 at 14:59.