I’m writing this while belted in to my exit row seat on a Jet2 plane waiting to fly out of Birmingham for some winter sun.

And just to prove that this blog isn’t only about me complaining, I’ve got to say it’s been an excellent day so far. Let me talk you through it…

6AM - up

6.20AM - on the road. Watched the sun rise over the M40

7.30AM - Maple parking meet & greet

7.40AM - in security queue

8.00AM - airside

Apart from being pleasingly rapid (even though it’s half term for some this week), the security really impressed me because (a) I didn’t have to take liquids out of my case and (b) I got to keep my watch on while going through the body scanner.

Some might say these innovations have been a damn long time coming to UK airports. Admittedly, I haven’t flown in 12 months, but today was very much the first time I’ve seen either. Technology finally giving back some of what terrorism has taken away.

8.10AM - a decent Full English. I’m not sure if I’m getting older and better off, or if inflation has warped my view, or if it genuinely is a bit less expensive at BHX, but the price wasn’t too bad.

8.45AM - a text from Jet2 (nice touch!) telling me which gate to go to.

9.15AM - bottom parked in my assigned seat.

For sure, I paid a bit extra for the exit row, but for a four and a half hour flight, money well spent I suspect. Likewise I sprung for them to guarantee my cabin bag would stay with me and not end up in the hold.

Let’s just say easyJet have got it all to live up to for the return!

And yes, I’ll write you all a post(card) from the Canary Islands.