The world spans thousands of miles. Big, indeed, with roads to traverse, oceans to cross, and airspace to cruise. People go places all the time, and depending on who you are, these places vary in distance. Walking can get the job done, but cars are even better; but sometimes cars don't quite cut it. Boats help, but only over water. Usually the answer to any form of long distance travel is to fly. Problem is, airplanes offer less control to the traveller when compared to a car, and mechanically they're also more intimidating than boats.

But the fear of flying generally stems from other phobias not directly related to the sensation of being several thousand feet off the ground. These "external" phobias manifest themselves in the fear of, say, crossing the ocean, or of hijacking and terrorism; it's not that they only occur on airlines versus an automobile; it's that they're more likely. This likelihood is the catalyst for many people's fear of flying. But "fear" should not be equated to "anxious." While some people feel slight anxiety over flying, others are totally debilitated.

Ostensibly, the fear of flying will no doubt occur to anyone where flying is not commonplace. That is to say, fear of flying is not a matter of probability, because it is a matter of improbability. Airline disasters are less likely to occur more than they are to occur. Get it? This does not imply naivete on the part of the traveller. It implies that in comparison car accidents are tenfold more likely ot occur than airline disasters. So if the fear of flying is logical, than it should be that those afraid to fly should also fear driving. This is only to point out the irrationality of flying-phobia. Not that the fear was ever rational, like all things emotional. But that fact only makes it all the more treatable.

The most accessible way to treat this phobia is to be educated. Simply being aware of the actual risks, especially the improbable ones, is enough to alleviate most people. Because, to stay irrational and fearful to flight hinders so much more in life, like speedy travel to other continents. The principle way to view fear of flying is exactly for what it is: a phobia to be overcome. Not only is it entirely irrational, but it admits a certain amount of naivete and ignorance on the part of the traveller; you are more likely to be car jacked or to drown on a boat.

Also take into consideration airline safety. Research and scrutinize the airlines you choose; and if the need to press further compels you, examine their flight histories.