Air Southwest sponsors 'fear of flying' course

Air Southwest is backing the first ever Fear of Flying course to be held at Plymouth City Airport next month.

The seminar, taking place on June 21, is intended to help people who crave the freedom of being able to travel overseas, but are held back by the thought of taking off in an aircraft.

An experienced captain will give a presentation on the ins-and-outs of aircraft functions, while attendees will also benefit from a talk on anxiety management by eminent psychologist Patricia Furness-Smith.

Although flying is widely recognised as being one of the safest modes of transport, many would-be jetsetters harbour irrational fears based on the altitude and speed at which airliners travel.

Commenting on the potential benefits of the course, Mike Coombes of Air Southwest said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone who is unsure about the whole experience of flying."

A spokesman for co-sponsor Aviatours added: "We know that this can be a life-changing experience. This is the first course we have run in Plymouth and we are looking forward to offering those who have felt trapped by their fear the opportunity to overcome their particular anxiety and start travelling with confidence."

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