Is there any reason why you don't just put your kids on an RPT flight?

Yes, there is no direct RPT flight. As they are young, they would have to travel as unaccompanied minor, requiring a responsible adult to check them in and one to collect them. This would require me flying to YSSY with them and putting them on regional flight for their mother to collect them at the destination. Costs to do this option equal or exceed the costs of flying them to the midway point myself, and get their mother out of a 10hr drive at no cost to her. She wont assist in cost of flying them except to give me what it would cost her in fuel, $150 !

Problem solved - beggars can't be chosers!

Dr :8

Then you turn around and fly the other way. Your gonna mostly average your TAS unless the weather is being an asshole.

Anyway, I think you can get "I fly other peoples planes around" type of personal insurance, which could be a good idea if you are having issues with the risk factor.

You sound like a good dude, i'd let you borrow my plane if I had one :)

All very good points about getting things in writing regarding insurence who pays for what and who is liable for what but lets face it you are not renting it to run an airline it is to take your family up. The same as if you wanted a mates car to drive down the road. Would you write up an agreement to take your mates falcon or commadore down to the local petrol station. NO I wouldnt maybe some of you clowns would but if it was me I would just ask them if you can borrow it. I grew up around aircraft and there are guys that won't lend you their BABY but some will. JUST ASK MATE. If all fails go to your local aeroclub and try them.

Just wanted to post an update. I have, since starting this thread been fortunate to accompany one of the aircraft owners on an Angel Flight he undertook. On the last leg to our home airport, after farewelling our passenger and relieving ourselves, as we strolled to the aircraft he offered for me to take the LHS and fly us home.:eek: I had been enjoying being a pax for once and the thought of piloting us home hadnt even crossed my mind. Being totally unprepared, I politely declined his offer, but did fly from wheels up until toc from RHS. I feel humbled by this guy, he has a shade under 10,000hrs in his logbook, in all types from Yaks to HS125, Lears etc. etc.
This Commanche being his personal aircraft from a stable of 3 or 4 inc a 200hp a side twin commanche, I humbly decline from asking him to use it personally, but will take him up on his offer to fly it, with himself onboard, should it be offered again. I am hopeful it will, as I have been asked to accompany him again in the near future.