NEED...Fear of flying mantra...

[teigyr]

Jenn,

What about it scares you? I've been in a lot of situations and I actually work for an airline. I was in a small plane once where I just had to distract myself because it was very bumpy and turbulance scared me to no end! I read the Auto Club book to see what hotels looked nice. It was mindless reading but it took my mind off of obsessing.

Anyway, I do aircraft weight and balance. I work a lot with the aircraft and pilots and ride occasionally in the flight deck. I can say quite honestly that the aircraft are meant to take a lot of abuse. Wind or turbulance is kind of like surfing...the pilots basically ride it. They know generally where it is and while it's intimidating, it is nothing that the aircraft or pilots can't handle. Pilots are trained in so many hypothetical situations that they can handle whatever is thrown their way. They truly know what they're doing and I've been able to observe them in adverse situations.

As a passenger, I did get clausterphobic once. My dad was very sick in ICU and it was an emergency trip to Calif. I basically lost it, like the walls closed in on me. If you feel that, a bag with ice on the back of your neck works wonders, the flight attendants can help you. And lastly if you're scared, talk to the flight attendants. They've dealt with so much and they can be reassuring. Oh, benedryl works as a wonderful sedative too! Be careful with major drugs -- I've seen a lot of situations where someone takes one too many or gets a drink after taking one and THAT isn't good. Ambien can also make people pretty ditzy.

Oh, you know how stupid little things can hypnotise you? Like a mindless magazine or playing solitaire or something like that? Be prepared with something to just take your mind off of things.

PM me if you have questions. Since I don't know why, I can't speak specifically about anything. Please do know, however, I was not horrified to fly but was mildly nervous before I started my current job. After seeing so many "behind the scenes" things, I have to honestly say I have no qualms about being on a plane whatsoever.

[Bikingmomof3]

Jenn,
I actually enjoy flying, I prefer it over driving. But DH is terrified of flying, yet he travels overseas a lot.
My advice to you would be the same as I give him (and he has yet to listened , so feel free to ignore) go to the doctor and he will give you something to take the edge off, just for the flight down and back.
Most people on a plane do not like to fly. The attendents are quite good at comforting people. I have flown a lot and I have never seen anyone lose it. Honestly, you will do great! Oh, if you ignore my suggestion, DH has a few drinks before the flight help.