Thread: Airline recruits actors

Rather typical of the BBC--how did the story end?

Update - March 31
According to the The Scotsman, Flybe Airline admitted it had "recruited temporary staff (actors) from a number of different agencies" and paid them.
"These flights will be full of normal fare-paying passengers. However, if we do not reach the 172 target, we will place temporary staff on to the flight to reach the airport's target."
(Don't you just love it, temporary staff. )

Thanks; I was having trouble sleeping...NOT
But, I was curious...

Mock interview-- An interview with a Flybe Airline (SF) "seat-filler".

Reporter: I understand you'll be playing the part of a paying passenger on Flybe's next flight to Dublin. Are you anything like the character you play?

SF: Nah, I'm nothing like this character. I'm playing the part of a guy who paid full fare for his last minute ticket to Dublin. Anyone that knows me, knows anything about me, knows I'm not a last minute type person. I would have had my ticket weeks ago.

Reporter: How do you prepare for your role as an airline passenger?

SF: I really don't have a particular type of passenger in mind. My methodology is influnced by the incredible actor David Caruso (Lt. Horatio Caine)
of CSI:Maimi. I practice puttiing on/taking off my sunglasses without saying a word.

Reporter: What are the dynamics of interacting with the general public?

SF: I was thinking about that earlier. Somebody asked me would it be difficult working with actual passengers? Well all I can say is, I'm really
going to try and blend in. I'm not a scene stealer, my goal is to be just one of the group.

Reporter: The Norwich airport manager has been quoted as saying hiring actors to play paying passengers doesn't seem to fit in the spirit of the airport/airline
agreement. Any comments?

SF: Well all I can say is I'm committed to doing the best job I can. I'm thoroughly dedicated and I think I'm ready for this opportunity. I know an entire
airline is counting on me. I'm going to be the best passenger Flybe ever had.

And you thought an airline hiring actors was bad, now an airline is hiring bald men as walking billboards. I kid you not.
Bald travelers paid to use their heads.