Courses to help you overcome aerophobia
Aerophobia, the term used to describe the irrational fear of breezes, fresh air and air travel, has become much more common in recent years. Approximately 12 per cent of the British public significantly suffer from it and 20 per cent of frequent flyers admit to using prescription drugs or alcohol to calm their nerves during a flight.
The causes and symptoms
Sufferers complain of nausea, breathlessness, heart palpitations, dizziness, shaking and vomiting. Increased levels of distress and anxiety are also synonymous with this phobia. Many sufferers attribute their fears to previous experiences or media coverage of flight disasters but others have no explanation at all and may have developed the fear without warning or logical reason.
Tackling the problem
In recognition of this increasingly common condition, a number of airlines offer special courses and seminars designed to help passengers overcome their fear of flying. Impressive success rates will appeal to anyone who is familiar with the anxiety and illness associated with aerophobia and wants to combat their fears. So, here’s a breakdown of what each course offers.
Flying Without Fear Ground Courses
Flying without fear promise to get you flying and smiling. In addition to alternative advice, support and resources, they run fear of flying courses in Hampshire that aim to provide individuals with all the confidence and knowledge needed to go flying. One-day Ground Courses are personalised and run in groups of six only. Customers may bring a supporter free of charge.
Ground Courses last one full day and cost £175.
Tel: 01420 588 628; website: www.flyingwithoutfear.com
Aviatours (in conjunction with British Airways)
Aviatours use fully qualified BA pilots and cabin crew, all highly experienced in caring for nervous and first-time flyers. Topics covered are: how an aircraft flies; weather and turbulence; safety and security; claustrophobia; stress and panic attacks; dealing with anxiety; relaxation techniques; and facing your fears.
Courses are held throughout the year at London Heathrow and Gatwick airports, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
General courses are one full day, including a 45-minute flight, pre-course counselling, and relaxation exercises.
£125 flight only, flight and course:
£295 for London Heathrow
£275 for London Gatwick
£195 for Edinburgh and Glasgow
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Telephone: 01252 793 250; website: flyingwithconfidence.com
