CASA has discovered that a range of people still prefer to operate older General Aviation aircraft to newer, safer models.
That’s one of the conclusions the regulator has come to after an initial round of consultation with a cross section of aviation people and organisations last month as part of its previously announced ageing aircraft project to determine if Australia has an ageing aircraft problem. And it's not merely the sizeable costs of investing in new aircraft that has some preferring older models.
CASA’s ageing aircraft project team met with industry at Jandakot, Perth, Parafield and Adelaide airports. Taking part in the meetings were people from local air operators, maintenance organisations, engineering organisations, flying training organisations and an aero club. A number of people expressed the view that older 12- to 18-seat aircraft were more attractive to operate than more modern aircraft such as a Cessna Caravan. Factors influencing this view are performance, twin engines, two pilot operations and costs.
Some people renting General Aviation aircraft also expressed a preference for older aircraft, despite the clear safety advantages of newer models. Cost was a major factor behind support for older aircraft, as well as factors such as performance and load capabilities.
CASA set up the ageing aircraft project earlier this year to determine whether ageing aircraft are a safety problem and what actions could be taken to address emerging issues. The project is looking at safety, reliability, maintainability, economy and liability. Extensive consultation with the aviation industry is a major part of the project, along with the collection and analysis of data.
The project team is holding the next industry consultation in Darwin and Alice Springs in early September. A detailed report will be produced on the findings of the project, which may feed into the development of proactive regulations, advisory material and CASA policies.