Exit seats!
Genuine exit seat story:
Having endured a 9 hr flight across the pond, sitting next to an elderly couple handing out Werther's Originals to me every 5 mins and neither of them being able to operate the in-flight movie screen; just watching the world map and seeing the a/c inch its way across the screen, I sympathise with all people who are genuine occupiers of these important seats. I quote:
"Oh look, we're now over Greenland." (points at screen)
"What's that, my dear?" (adjusts earpiece)
"We're over Greenland." (louder)
"Mmm, looks a long way down." (leans toward window)
"Werther's Original, young man?" (smiles)
As a military pilot, I might have some extra influence / leverage on getting an exit seat, but alas, no - this was a lucky placing. Selling the seats appears to contravene CAA guidelines (?), but one thing's for certain - airlines beware: litigation from passengers if the exit lane is blocked by the infirm or incompetent! Is this too harsh?
Any top tips from cabin crew?! I'm off on hols at the end of July...wish me luck.