It doesn't appear that any Skywest F100 tech crew have responded on this, so , from a charter SLF perspective--things have changed since the introduction of the new system. Inbound to Perth, PM, it was a case of get into the air on scheduled departure time then wait to see how long it would be before the power comes right off. Or how many holding orbits you did inland from Jurien Bay. Watching other flights orbit with you. Now, on the PM flight, departing West Angeles, you will board at sunset, and wait until last light to depart. Announcement about a slot time, get into the air, and then the power comes right back in the cruise. Normal flight time would be 95 minutes, more commonly now is 120 minutes. Can go out to 135 minutes. Slow all the way, but not often having to orbit. Some on here who haven't had to work into the Pilbara may not have noticed that the busiest minesite strips are visual daylight only. So we have to be airborne by last light. Hence you get all these F100's into the air at the same time, and they have to manage it. Less of an issue as the days get longer, probably, delay departure time to lessen time in the air. But I know we've been sitting on the piano keys, midwinter, watching the landing lights grow very bright on the ground ahead. Until the mining companies we work for decide to stagger knock-off times for those coming off-roster , or a third runway is built, it won't change. My money would be on ther third runway option happening first , as easy as the other option sounds.
