|
The collapse of Ansett was a sad event for many Australians. Here are my thoughts...
The first thing that came to my mind upon the unfortunate collapse of Ansett was this: what would now happen to the wonderful men and women who made this airline what it was? I myself have very fond memories of flying with Ansett on my first airline trip, and subsequent flights thereafter.
Being thirteen years old at the time, and an avid aviation nut since I could walk, meant that being allowed to visit the flight deck was an awesome experience. The dazzling array of dials and switches and the professionalism of the pilots was a far cry from my childhood fantasy of sticking yellow paper Captain's stripes on my shoulders.
I will be forever impressed by the friendly way I was treated by the Ansett crew I had the privilege of meeting, and who showed that Ansett spirit to an thirteen year old girl with the dream to fly. I still treasure all of the signatures I collected in the flyleaf of my Flight book, and each of the comments and wishes expressed by the pilots brings back the varied memories of each flight.
I will always remember the thrill of landing in Perth shortly after dawn, seeing all from the cockpit jump seat; spotting the lights of Forrest at 37 000ft; getting my picture taken wearing a pilot's cap; and having the lucky coincidence of visiting the same crew twice.
My sincere thanks to all of you, and best wishes for your return to the skies. Never give up the dream.
It is people like you who made Ansett special.
Thank you.
==============================
Stats from 'AnsettSTARS'. See address below.
BEAT THAT!
During the period of Administration Ansett :
Operated 9,186 flights and achieved a reliability of 99.8%.
Carrying 752,014 passengers (load factor 57%)
Achieved on-time departures of 96% (at zero minutes) and 99% (within the world standard of 15 minutes).
Achieved on time arrivals at 85% at zero minutes and 98% within the world standard of 15 minutes.
Conducted 32 flights for the Peacekeeping force in Dili, 50 flights carrying Pollies around during the election and serviced the Australian Defence Force outpost at Christmas Island.
Ansett played the most significant role all Australian airlines by ferrying fire crews to save Qantas’ city from bushfires.
Together we performed the most complex and logistically-challenging operations in Ansett’s history and achieved a reliability rate of 99.8%.
Ansett STARS can proudly say: BEAT THAT! Figures the envy of every Airline in the world.
==============================
Signatures have been censored for security.
|
