Interesting catch. Maybe Lucas thought people wouldn't be able to follow the plot? ;)

Historically speaking, isn't the whole point of a decoy being absolutely as far away from you as possible? Their whole job is to be a diversion/take a bullet for you. Half the galaxy must know she uses them after TPM.

AOTC almost does it right, but one wonders why Padme didn't take an economy flight from Naboo the same way she returns there. The escort fighters could have just as easily been blown out of the sky. Frink has proven this. :P

And I'm overthinking the prequels again. Darn you George!