HMHB "Hard to believe this is taking so long. Were they expecting an internal candidate to get the gig? Thought it was a 5 year appointment expiring August?
Be hard pushed to find (or appoint) an internal candidate; any decent DAS must start at management level and clean out the coop; it's really very dark and dirty in there. It's to be hoped that various parts of the IOS have not been storing data, gathering evidence and joining the dots for the new DAS to consider when selecting his 'team'. I'd bet Pel Air was a mere bagatelle compared to the media holocaust which could conceivably follow if any form of blind eye treatment of those issues, particularly those emanating from the Pel Air or other notable fiascos was spotted. The Senate committee is certainly not letting these matters slide by and the new boy must consider this. These matters must, as a matter of conscience and clarity, be openly and fairly addressed: if the new boy intends to be on the square, with industry that is.
The selectors really do need to get it right, because if the lid comes off when the FAA or ICAO are paying attention and the world is very focussed on matters of aeronautical safety – things can go pear shaped very quickly. That you can bet on and this gummermint doesn't need that level of aggravation, noise and publicity. What price Qantas then, Australia relegated to ICAO Cat 2?, and ICAO do need a scalp or two right now, being very sensitive to public comment on their past ancestry, present value and future worth. Now that is a big apple cart to upset.
No, there may be a desire for an internal acolyte; but that can't happen. No amount of posturing, pressing the flesh and posing as qualified at RAS gatherings and other notable events can protect those who need it from a public thrashing. The bad apples have been clearly identified and if the new DAS won't throw them out then it becomes a matter for the consumer to deal with. Tick tock – indeed...
This is not an easy fix, both the Senate and miniscule's report confirm this. A band aid and an aspirin is no solution where major surgery is required, just won't do. From the heady heights of the board room, to the junior FOI visiting the smallest flight school, things must be seen to change, for the better.
By the by – Thursday 14 or Friday 15 for DAS announcement is heavily backed. Time is running short and needs must, when the devil drives.
Toot toot.