I was a pilot/CFI before becoming ATC in the States, so that I'm sure had something to do with it, but I had quite a few chances to ride in the cockpit, and even fly different aircraft before 9/11.

My father was an L1011 Capt, I managed to wheedle permission to fly a 3 day trip with him domestically. Actually learned a lot. I also got to ride jumpseat on his retirement flight.

Aircraft I got to actually fly a bit;

T-39, LR25, C404, OH-6, MU-2, T-38. Also a large number of GA aircraft.

I was able to jumpseat on pretty much all the MD/Boeing aircraft of last 30 years, but never on an Airbus. Picked up an awful lot of useful information and enjoyed every trip but one where the Capt and FO were too PO at each other to speak beyond required checklist items. Wish to thank all the crews for their hospitality, and assure you I tried to put all the education to use.