You are absolutely right to ask "What is it with flying clubs?"
The majority are so poorly run and leave you with the impression that the student or aircraft renter is there for the school's benefit.
Rarely does anyone assume responsibility.
Usual gripes:
Aircraft u/s, late returning, or even just absent (lent to another club yesterday?)
Communication is the key here - Ops need to have finger on the pulse and talk to people.
Once the restriction on my FI rating is removed I'm gonna start a school that cares
It would make great business sense.