binman, you have a very good point, and while many years ago BA was my go to on this route it now only is when there is a big enough price difference to warrant, or availability. This past week LHR-IST was completely sold out most days, yes all 6 flights many on large aircraft, while BA had availability.

To clear up a question above, I was referring to recorded announcements AT THE GATE. I think I was quite clear, several times that the "ILLEGAL" announcement was read by the Purser.

TEd to Toe, if that is the case, I am glad that either the complaints made on the flight, or perhaps even this FT thread has ended this practice.