I got Lucky twice. The first time the plane left the gate but was taken to a hanger for a total cleaning, so they knew about it and relaid it to the people cleaning it and I was able to pick it up at the Baggage Office later that night.

The other time the plane was already in the air but they contacted the city to where it was going and I did get it back.

Of cause I realized the loss within a very short time span. I guess if its hours or days the worse the chance of seeing the item again. Of cause if its left in a pocket of the seat and someone finds it before the Staff has a chance to see if its there, Good-by Charlie most likely.

Then there were a couple of times that I thought I left something on the plane since I didnt have it with me, only to find out I either forgot in my car or somewhere else.