Urban Legend
I am sat here reading the various threads when I had a thought. (stop laughing at the back)
When I was in ( 80's) there was a rumour that you could pitch up at a RAF base that flew long haul and if there was room on a flight you could hop on it.
All you needed was your passport and proof that you could get home on your own, ie you had the money. I think they charged a nominal fee.
There was a name for this exercise but for life of me cannot remember it.
Now is this just an urban legend or is my failing memory letting me down.