Staying on the ATC theme.
Summer 1971 or '2 during the Frankfurt ATC strike. Start up delays of 2 to 3 hours depending on the time of day.
We had a scheduled service THF-FRA-THF which operated hourly throughout the day.
In the hold at Fulda listened out on the ground frequency and found there was a 2 hour delay. Called up and asked for start clearance for the return service, no stand number was required in those days, the only question asked was "are your doors closed". "Affirmative" was my truthful reply. "Roger = you are no. 36(?) in sequence - standby for start".
We landed around 40 minutes later, had a leisurly 45 to 50 minute turnround, got our start clearance and went on our way rejoicing.
Very satisfying, got away 15 minutes before the previous hour's departure and beat the system - never managed it again though!