Fear of Flying

Written by Mark Butterfield, The Chauffeur Group Director

I recently met a fascinating chap by the name of Keith Godfrey at a business meeting. Inevitably I ended up asking him:

“So, what do you do?”

It turned out he wasn’t the usual solicitor or accountant but a retired British Airways pilot who now spends his time helping people overcome their fear of flying. It was fascinating talking to him and very generously, he gave me a copy of his book to read. It was entertaining and amusing but very reassuring for anyone who is at all nervous about flying.

The Chauffeur Group transports tens of thousands of travellers to and from airports each year, so I thought it relevant to include the following advice from Keith:

“If flying makes you anxious, you’re not alone. So does nearly half the population – 40% of people are nervous or afraid of flying. Despite the obvious safety of airlines, there are many people who still face flying with feelings that range from apprehension to terror.

“If you have to fly for business and you have any anxiety at all, you’re less likely to be at your best for what might be a crucial meeting. If you want to be less anxious and more in control when you’re flying, then you should visit www.flyingwithoutfear.com”

Flying Without Fear is Keith Godfrey’s website and is described as “the largest help network for anxious flyers”. It offers more free help and related products than any similar company and has helped thousands of people around the world.

The company runs courses every month in a de-commissioned aircraft cabin located in Alton, Hampshire. Such is its reputation, customers have actually flown in to attend the course . . . one from as far afield as Moscow!