My last International trip in coach was in Sept of 2000. On the return leg from TPE - SFO (Taipei, Taiwan to San Fran) I was in row 68c in a 474. The guy in from of me refused to unrecline his seat during meal service. The FA asked him when serving meals. When the FA came around again, I asked the FA to ask the guy again, and he flatly refused and said XXCS!@# NO! I nicely thanked the man from behind in the most sweet and courteous voice I possess. Nothing worked. This is a very LONG flight, and sadly very painful. I am about 6'1", and most of my height is in my legs. It was rude of him!

I always make it a point not to recline my seat during meals. That means if the person in back of me is eating, even if I am done, the seat stays up! I will then only recline after asking the person behind if he would not mind. I know this is not necessary, but it is polite. At times I am told no problem, and once I remember I was asked if I could not go all the way back. Each time I have found people to be very accomodating and very appreciative.

Just a thought!