Fear of Flying
No matter how many times I’ve flown, I still get anxiety attack during the plane’s take-off and landings. Seemingly out of my control, my mind plays pictures of exploding aircrafts before my eyes. People rushing to emergency exits, colliding planes, and smoke blowing from the rear end of the plane reeling downwards as it crashes. Fortunately, these horrific scenes last only the few minutes it takes the plane to reach its designated height or to halt into place at its terminal.
Not all are lucky. I know of people who suffer such panic attacks the whole duration of the flight. What a nightmare! But what a pity if these people would forego travelling by air and missing out on beautiful places and unforgettable experiences.
If you’re one of those people who are deathly afraid of flying, but for some reason has to to travel by air nevertheless, you might consider Virgin Atlantic’s one-day workshops aimed at helping sufferers overcome their fear of flying. Already 57 people have signed up to the course at a cost of $355 (£199), which includes an optional 45-minute flight at the end of the day.
“These courses make a real difference to people’s lives (including) business travelers who, despite being frequent flyers, (can) get anxious on every flight,” says chairman of Virgin Atlantic, Richard Branson.
If you find $355 too steep, then you may want to check this website out. The Web site has advice and tools for passengers who have issues with boarding a plane.
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POSTED IN: Getting There and Away : Asia
2 opinions for Fear of Flying
TammyP
Aug 25, 2005 at 9:27 am
I should do something like that some day. I’m dealthy afraid of flying. Heavy duty drugs help, but then it makes it difficult if I have to travel alone.
Ruth
Aug 31, 2005 at 3:16 am
Hi Tammy! Tranquilizers are definitely not a solution, especially when travelling alone or with kids. Makes jetlag worse, too, I suspect.
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