Years ago, quite a few major U.S. airlines featured free fear of flying programs. One of the industry's initial offerings, from Pan Am in the mid-1970s, sometimes included a complimentary hop on a quick flight. American, Northwest, United and US Airways also provided comparable programs; however, budget cuts led to the removal of such initiatives.
Today, private firms and airport authorities at facilities around the nation offer similar programs. For those outside the U.S., some international airlines still offer fear of flying trainings at overseas locations.
Below are summaries of some well-known programs.
Domestic seminars
MySky Program. This independent company evolved from Northwest Airlines' in-company curriculum, and now licensed psychologists and airline pilots run an intensive 3-day program. Trainings are held in Northwest's two principal hub cities and usually include a quick flight. Through early registration, the fees are $895 in Minneapolis/St. Paul and $995 in Detroit.
SOAR Program SOAR was formed in 1982 by Captain Tom Bunn, an airline captain and licensed therapist. He has helped over 7,000 individuals conquer fear of flying. It is the only program proven extremely effective by impartial university research.Fear of flying remedy from SOAR establishes protection prior to flight that works automatically all through flight.
Fear of Flying Clinic. This San Mateo, Calif.-based company-which was established in 1976 by two female pilots-operates workshops throughout the year in northern California. Pricing information is offered through the website.
Flying in the Comfort Zone Fearful fliers from the Wisconsin/Illinois area have been attending these courses at Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport for more than 20 years. The classes are held on four repeated Saturday mornings and end with a round-trip flight between Milwaukee and Chicago O'Hare. The company additionally offers a video tutorial with a virtual flight for $159.95.
International Seminars
U.K.: Flying Without Fear Virgin Atlantic Airways conducts these trainings at regular intervals at airports all around Great Britain, for a rate of 199 pounds. Of particular note is that the agenda offers a seminar custom-made 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 interview with a flight stress specialist and a session in a flight simulator. The fee is 600 euros.
The Netherlands: The VALK Foundation. This program is supported in part by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, while oversight is provided by Leiden University. The course includes visits to stationary aircraft, flight simulators and real flights within Europe. Individual teaching activities are presented 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.
