11-Nov-23 UA 1665 SFO-BOS "red-eye": 👍

Back story: I was seated in F (757-200), and after boarding I asked the Purser if he'd ask the Captain if he'd put Channel 9 on. The Purser said, "What's Channel 9?" I replied, "Don't worry -- the Captain will know." A few minutes later, the Purser came back to my seat and said the Captain has invited me to the cockpit. I went up and introduced myself, and he said, "It's been many months since anyone asked for Channel 9. I'm happy to do it for anyone who asks!" We chatted a few more minutes, and I was able to enjoy the ATC for the entire flight.

Moral: It doesn't hurt to ask! I'm usually 50-50 when I do.