At the PFA rally a few years ago, My Dad and I flew in, in a lovely Super Cub in military markings. A chap wandered up and asked to look inside - we were more than welcoming, expecting to let him jump in and show him around. All he did was look at the registration plate and wander off. We thought it strange.
Having said that, I take an interest in aviation, I love watching aircraft and am happy to encourage and help people.
As for spotting - no problem.
The annoying thing is, when a spotter comes up and tries to unload his encyclopaedic knowledge on you, as if he is the only one who knows. I have spoken to many and instead of an interesting discussion, you get a monologue of what he knows.
I go to a fair few airshows with the BA mobile sim, and I am always happy to chat and encourage (that is my only reason for doing it). However, I would love to strangle the odd monologue man!!
Apart from that, there is a very British disease of frowning on success or knowledge - and that is where the "despisement" comes from.
A few months ago I went to the model engineer exhibition at Ali Pali. I was the youngest there (almost!). For those who don't know model engineering is about steam engines and rockets, not about plastic kits. I Thought it a real shame that when the generation there is gone, the skills will have gone too. Its a real pity.
PS when I wave, please wave back!