I discussed the situation with REX prior to publication of the earlier Crikey story. That person, with operational control, said the pilot took some persuading to continue the flight. He said Canberra like Wagga Wagga was also experiencing bad weather at the time but when I suggested that Goulburn, Albury Wodonga, Griffith, and at least one other airport on the western side of the divide were all available and well within the reach of the turbo-prop the conversation ended. This was a gamble, and the consequences of the other engine cutting out low over the southern highlands would have been a crash.

Nothing less than a full examination of a situation where an airliner flew for 55 minutes or more in breach of CAR 20.6 with passengers on board is required.

Just how shabby is the administration of air safety in this country? Just how long do you think this situation will last?

3.2 The pilot in command of a multi-engine aircraft in which 1 engine fails or the
rotation thereof is stopped, may proceed to an aerodrome of his or her selection
instead of the nearest suitable aerodrome if, upon consideration of all relevant
factors, he or she deems such action to be safe and operationally acceptable.
These factors shall include the following:
(a) nature of the malfunctioning and the possible mechanical difficulties
which may be encountered if the flight is continued;
(b) availability of the inoperative engine to be used;
(c) altitude, aircraft weight, and usable fuel at the time of engine stoppage;
(d) distance to be flown coupled with the performance availability should
another engine fail;
(e) relative characteristics of aerodromes available for landing;
(f) weather conditions en route and at possible landing points;
(g) air traffic congestion;
(h) type of terrain;
(i) familiarity of the pilot with the aerodrome to be used.

You may not agree with decision made but it was within discretion. CASA could not reasonably do more than seek an explanation.