Think BAJ's on the money. Also the Qantas Founders' Museum doesn't currently operate aircraft. And, AFAIK, they are a separate entity to the airline. Lastly, the airline Qantas could
not currently be seen to be operating a vintage jet given the financial and management issues they currently face.
http://www.qfom.com.au/Quote:
With the exception of external paint fading, the hot dry weather and low humidity of Longreach provide excellent conditions for long-term aircraft preservation. Retired Qantas engineers continue to maintain VH-XBA in flying condition and it is possible the aircraft will be seen again at air shows. Plans are in hand to build a very large sunshade over all the Qantas Founders Museum aircraft housed in the open. Your adminission fee helps pay towards the maintenance of the aircraft and other museum exhibits.
http://www.qfom.com.au/707.htmlSo if it's going to take time to fund a sunshade, fuel (and the rest!) is going to be arriving even later.
IMHO, it's terrific that HARS is able to fund the operation of a Connie; a four-engine jet would need pockets that were exponentially deeper. All credit to HARS for what is achieved.
Regards,