For a decade Virgin Atlantic have helped people understand and overcome their fear of flying - be it being unable to board an aircraft, terror at take- off, a crash or accident or another anxiety.

Their courses are for anybody who finds flying worrying regardless of the reason/. Most passengers at sometime are apprehensive about flying. There are many different reasons for this - sometimes the sheer size of the aircraft is intimidating and its capacity to defy the laws of gravity seems questionable - which can provoke concerns about the risk of the plane having an accident of crashing. Other concerns may be the the parts of the wing which move or the sound of the engine or the cranking noise of the planes landing gear. These issues, like the turbulence aircraft occasionally encounter are normal and part and parcel of flying which is far far safer than road travel.

For some the aircraft cabin can be very claustrophobic and cause anxiety or panic attacks. For others the fear of relenquishing control of one's destiny to a single pilot is worrying even though there always two. And as for the feeling of being 20,000ft above the ground - even those with a head for heights might feel a little insecure.

Recommendation

The instructors on Virgin's Flying Without Fear Programmes understand and empathise with these and other worries. Their value of these courses has been noted by the Royal College of Psychiatrists who have stated that "Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Without Fear courses come highly recommended for their continuous effective work in helping people to overcome their fears / phobias of flying."

As a result of these courses many people not only overcome their fear of flying but also are able to enjoy flying as part of a business trip or holiday. Often it is their passport to freedom as they can visit places previously out of bounds and the door to new horizons as they proudly become frequent flyers.

Locations

Though the Flying without fear programme is sponsored by several local UK airports with courses taking place at airports throughout Britain all through the year. As each course is staffed on a 1 - 5 ratio every participant is assured that their personal concerns will not only be heard but taken seriously.

The one-day courses are held at Gatwick, Heathrow, Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Southampton, Bournemouth, Glasgow, Newcastle & Leeds/Bradford Airports. The ‘Flying Without Fear’ team consists of current Virgin Atlantic Captains, cabin crew, consultants and trainers, all who are passionate about helping you to overcome your fears of flight. You will not be alone.

Cost: £199 + VAT

For more information, or call Virgin Atlantic's Flying Without Fear team on 01423 714900 or visit their website. Open 09:00 - 17:00 weekdays.