In the past, a number of major U.S. airlines featured complimentary fear of flying programs. One of the industry’s earliest offerings, from Pan Am in the mid-1970s, on occasion incorporated a complimentary hop on a quick flight. American, Northwest, United and US Airways also provided comparable programs; however, budget cuts led to the elimination of such initiatives.
Now, private firms and airfield authorities at facilities around the country offer similar programs. For those outside the U.S., some international airlines still offer fear of flying courses at overseas locations.
Listed are summaries of quite a few well-known programs.
Domestic seminars
MySky Program. This independent business evolved from Northwest Airlines’ in-house program, and now licensed psychologists and airline pilots direct an thorough three-day curriculum. Courses are held in Northwest’s two largest hub cities and usually include a short flight. By way of early registration, the fees are $895 in Minneapolis/St. Paul and $995 in Detroit.
SOAR Program SOAR was founded in 1982 by Captain Tom Bunn, an airline captain and licensed therapist. He has helped over 7,000 people overcome fear of flying. It is the single curriculum proven highly successful by independent university research.Fear of flying treatment from SOAR establishes protection prior to flight that works automatically during flight.
Fear of Flying Clinic. This San Mateo, Calif.-based company—which was founded in 1976 by two female pilots—operates workshops throughout the year in northern California. Pricing information is accessible through the website.
Flying in the Comfort Zone Fearful fliers from the Wisconsin/Illinois region have been attending these courses at Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport for more than 20 years. The classes are held on 4- consecutive Saturday mornings and conclude with a round-trip flight between Milwaukee and Chicago O’Hare. The company also offers a video seminar with a virtual flight for $159.95.
International Seminars
U.K.: Flying Without Fear Virgin Atlantic Airways conducts these seminars at frequent intervals at airports all around Great Britain, for a cost of 199 pounds. Of particular note is that the course offers a session tailored just for children, which lasts half a day and includes virtual flight technology.
France: Stress-Free Flying. This course, sponsored by Air France, is described as an “anti-stress workshop” and includes an consultation with a flight stress expert and a session in a flight simulator. The cost is 600 euros.
The Netherlands: The VALK Foundation. This curriculum is supported in part by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, while administration is provided by Leiden University. The program includes visits to static aircraft, flight simulators and actual flights within Europe. Individual training sessions are available as well.
Australia: Fearless Fliers. This Australian non-profit program is sponsored by Qantas Airways and has been in operation for more than 30 years. The curriculum includes relaxation and stress management techniques.
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