What is the Safest Seat in an Airplane?

What is the Safest Seat in an Airplane?
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343
Summary:
A question often asked by anxious airplane passengers is this: What is the safest seat in an airplane? The answer: none. Because accidents can erupt at any spot within the aircraft.
Some people are of the opinion that the nearer one is seated to an emergency exit, the safer one is. Sadly, that is not absolutely true. A fire can start near the emergency exit as in any place within the plane.

Keywords:
aviation, flight, travel, business travel, business trips

Article Body:
A question often asked by anxious airplane passengers is this: What is the safest seat in an airplane? The answer: none. Because accidents can erupt at any spot within the aircraft.
Some people are of the opinion that the nearer one is seated to an emergency exit, the safer one is. Sadly, that is not absolutely true. A fire can start near the emergency exit as in any place within the plane. And if the emergency exit is jammed, then the person sitting nearest it is in as much of the same fix as the one sitting farthest from it.
Regardless of where the passenger is seated inside the aircraft, the risks to one’s safety is greatly minimized by one thing above all else: by being alert and aware of one’s surroundings.
Being alert means being watchful and attentive. Note the location of all exits. Listen to all pre-flight and in-flight instructions. Do not drink too much. Use common sense and try not to do anything that will be detrimental to your own safety, as well as to that of others, such as having too many or too heavy carry-on luggage, spilling hot drinks, being careless with pointed objects or things with sharp edges, and the like. Again, use common sense.
Airplane accidents are rare, despite the fears and misgivings surrounding air travel. But if one does occur during the flight, it is very important for the passenger to stay calm and not to panic. Fear is a highly contagious disease. Many casualties in accidents, even those that happened on land, could have been prevented had the panic been contained. Thus, in case of an accident, take a deep breath, keep the tone of voice down and follow the line.
There is no such thing as the safest seat in the plane. But any passenger can always make his or hers the safest seat if he or she chooses to, wherever he or she is seated. Creating the sense of safety within one’s self, after all, is a mind game.

Private Jet Charter: Traveling with pets

Private Jet Charter: Traveling with pets
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221
Summary:
Can't bear to leave the family pet in a kennel and don't want your trusted companion stuck in commercial's cargo section?   No need to worry.   One benefit of private jet travel is the opportunity to take the pride and joy of the family with you in the main cabin.

Keywords:
private jet, private jets, private jet charter,private air charter,flight charter services,flight charter,aviation,private travel,private plane,travel

Article Body:
Can't bear to leave the family pet in a kennel and don't want your trusted companion stuck in commercial's cargo section?   No need to worry.   One benefit of private jet travel is the opportunity to take the pride and joy of the family with you in the main cabin.   
Despite the fact that pets are often considered members of the family, the FAA classifies pets as cargo.   Generally this means they must be appropriately secured, most commonly in an animal carrier, during takeoff and landing for the safety to themselves and others.   International travel poses additional procedures and restrictions, and these may differ from one country to another.    
Prior to booking your flight, inform your charter operator if you plan to travel with your pet.   They can check if there are any restrictions or requirements and ensure that the jet can accommodate your pet. 
Some Helpful Tips:
•  If using a travel carrier for the first time, give your pet at least a month prior to your flight to become familiar with the carrier to minimize his or her stress during travel.
•  Talk with your veterinarian about prescription tranquilizers if you are considering sedating your pet during travel.   Make sure to specify it is for air travel.  
•  Bring along a confirmation of your pets immunization (to verify a clean bill of health).

Private Jet Charter: Tips on Traveling to a High Traffic Locale

Private Jet Charter: Tips on Traveling to a High Traffic Locale
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260
Summary:
High traffic is inevitable at private airports during popular events or holiday seasons (think Super Bowl or winter in Aspen). With that in mind, we have put together some information and helpful tips to ensure that your private jet travel to bustling airports is both relaxing and stress-free.

Keywords:
private jet, private jets, private jet charter,private air charter,flight charter services,flight charter,aviation,private travel,private plane,travel

Article Body:
High traffic is inevitable at private airports during popular events or holiday seasons (think Super Bowl or winter in Aspen). With that in mind, we have put together some information and helpful tips to ensure that your private jet travel to bustling airports is both relaxing and stress-free.
"What is an STMP?"   Special Traffic Management Programs (STMP's) are implemented for special events that attract thousands of people and aircraft to participating airports. The FAA requires users to make arrival and departure reservations to and from these airports to manage the flow of arrivals and departures for these events.  
"What is a slot time?"   Slot times refer to airports expecting high traffic volume due to special events or seasonal activity. Slot times are issued to stagger incoming flight traffic in order to relieve air traffic control duties. Slot time reservations are typically available 72 hours prior to the estimated time of arrival.
Private Jet Travel Tips:
•  Be flexible with your departure time requests. Allow a window for departure times. Slot times will not be assigned more than 72 hours in advance to the flight departure request.    
•  Avoid changing flight dates & times.  Slot times are valuable and go quickly, so try to stick to your flight schedule to avoid conflicts.
•  Arrive on time.  Particularly in mountainous areas, weather can change rapidly. The closer you leave to your intended time, the better opportunity you have to guarantee your arrival time. So if your slot departure is 8am, please allow time for boarding so the jet will be ready and in position for an 8am departure.

Private Jet Charter: Spotlight on...Nantucket, Massachusetts

Private Jet Charter: Spotlight on...Nantucket, Massachusetts
Word Count:
288
Summary:
Nantucket may very well be the definition of the ideal summer destination.   The moment you arrive you can feel your pulse slow down as you adjust to the relaxed pace of island living.   Watch the sunset at one of the spectacular beaches.   Follow an active day of golf with a drink overlooking the harbor.   Browse stylish boutiques through cobblestone streets...

Keywords:
private jet, private jets, private jet charter,private air charter,flight charter services,flight charter,aviation,private travel,private plane,travel

Article Body:
Nantucket may very well be the definition of the ideal summer destination.   The moment you arrive you can feel your pulse slow down as you adjust to the relaxed pace of island living.   Watch the sunset at one of the spectacular beaches.   Follow an active day of golf with a drink overlooking the harbor.   Browse stylish boutiques through cobblestone streets.   This idyllic island boasts some of the best restaurants in the world and dining on fresh seafood and lobster is de rigueur.    Just be forewarned... a trip to Nantucket is more than a destination; one visit will make you a lifetime islander at heart.  
Here are some Nantucket info and events:
Nantucket Race Week:
August 12 – 20, 2006 - Sailors from all along the East Coast will converge on Nantucket to enjoy a week of racing and fun in one of America's greatest sailing venues.   The week culminates with the legendary Opera House Cup Regatta, among the great classic wooden sailboat regattas in the world.   For more information visit http://www.nantucketraceweek.org/
Charter Fishing:  
Enjoy charter fishing aboard the "Just Do It Too".   With 20 years experience, Captain Marc will put you on the Bass, Blues and Bonita off the beautiful shores of Nantucket Island on the 34' Custom Sport Fisherman "Just Do It Too".   The "Just Do It Too" is the only Coast Guard Certified charter fishing vessel on Nantucket that will accommodate up to 16 passengers. 
Slip #1013, Straight Wharf
http://www.justdoittoo.com/
(508) 228.7448
Miacomet Golf Course: 
Nantucket's only 18 hole public golf course is challenging yet very playable, with multiple tees that allow both professionals and amateurs the opportunity to enjoy each hole.
12 West Miacomet Road
Nantucket, MA 02554
http://www.miacometgolf.com/
(508) 325.0333
Where to Stay:
Nantucket Island Resorts offers premier accommodation options.
http://www.nantucketislandresorts.com/
800.ISLANDS

Private Jet Charter: Spotlight on...Cabo San Lucas

Private Jet Charter: Spotlight on...Cabo San Lucas
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261
Summary:
Where the desert meets the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, lies Cabo San Lucas. A dramatic landscape and brilliant colors drape this natural wonderland.   Cabo San Lucas has an air of mystery that is easy to be drawn into...

Keywords:
private jet, private jets, private jet charter,private air charter,flight charter services,flight charter,aviation,private travel,private plane,travel

Article Body:
Where the desert meets the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, lies Cabo San Lucas. A dramatic landscape and brilliant colors drape this natural wonderland.   Cabo San Lucas has an air of mystery that is easy to be drawn into.  The once tranquil fishing village and long-ago pirate hangout is now a sought-after destination.  However, the locals respect for the land has led its protection, and Cabo San Lucas is the only coastal resort in Mexico with a nature preserve within its city limits.  The full service marina, underwater nature preserves and striking Land's End Rock formations are just the beginning of the incredible sights to explore.  Active-minded folks can try their hand at various watersports; snorkel in the Sea of Cortez; experience world-class fishing, rock climbing, hiking; or golf at one of the championship courses. 
For those who prefer a more relaxed vacation, just remember, this is a place that appreciates siestas, and has some of the most beautiful beaches for lounging in the sun.  Whether you are looking to discover a quiet beach cove, local shops, or fabulous restaurants, you will always find something to do (even if that something is to do nothing!)    
Where exactly is Cabo San Lucas?
Cabo San Lucas is located at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula in the State of Baja California Sur.  Cabo San Lucas is approximately 20 miles southwest of the Los Cabos International Airport.
Average Temperature
This tropical desert paradise enjoys an average year-round temperature of 78? F, and from October through April, temperature cools to the 60?'s at night.

Private Jet Charter: Identifying the Right Provider

Private Jet Charter: Identifying the Right Provider
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348
Summary:
Almost every company in the private air industry claims to have the best safety standards. But how can a customer really determine what defines high standards?  Below is a general guideline to consider when working with any private jet provider.

Keywords:
private jet, private jets, private jet charter,private air charter,flight charter services,flight charter,aviation,private travel,private plane,travel

Article Body:
Almost every company in the private air industry claims to have the best safety standards. But how can a customer really determine what defines high standards?  Below is a general guideline to consider when working with any private jet provider.
FAA Documentation
A charter company must have a valid FAA Part 135 air taxi certificate which authorizes it to fly for hire.  Sometimes companies attempt to fly under the less strict Part 91 regulations.  These rules have far less FAA oversight, and as a result, the liability of the passenger is increased.  Therefore, it's important to ask for a copy of the FAA air taxi certificate, and under which regulations your flights will be flown.
Insurance
Insurance can provide a great deal of information about a charter company.  Typical limits are $25mm for a small jet, $50mm for a mid-sized, and $100mm for a large jet. Along with the FAA certificate, prospective flyers should ask for proof of adequate insurance.
Third-party Verification
Essential data about the aircraft operator can be obtained from an industry auditing company. One leading company in this field is Aviation Research Group (ARG/US). A charter customer should ask their private jet provider for an ARG/US TripCHEQ prior to booking.   
Pilot Experience
Does the provider have minimum standards for pilot hours? Are the assigned pilot’s hours verified prior to the flight? Both answers should be yes- pilot hours are verified time that a pilot has spent operating an aircraft. It is an indicator of experience, and is easy to obtain. In addition to the audit rating, prior to every trip, the private jet provider should verify the assigned pilots' flight hours on the specific jet type. 
Operational Control
This is an essential aspect of safety, yet knowing whose jet you're flying on isn't always clear-cut.   Many customers book a private jet through a well-known jet provider, but are placed - without knowing it - on a small independent one they know nothing about.  If outsourcing occurs, your private jet provider should be able to ensure that the operator who maintains operational control meets high safety standards.

Private Jet Charter: Expecting the Unexpected

Private Jet Charter: Expecting the Unexpected
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202
Summary:
The saying "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" holds true in life as well as in private air travel.   A good pilot will prepare for unexpected events by planning alternate options prior to every flight.   They will take into account many factors including weather, fuel, airport runway lengths and the weight and balance of the aircraft...

Keywords:
private jet, private jets, private jet charter,private air charter,flight charter services,flight charter,aviation,private travel,private plane,travel

Article Body:
The saying "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" holds true in life as well as in private air travel.   A good pilot will prepare for unexpected events by planning alternate options prior to every flight.   They will take into account many factors including weather, fuel, airport runway lengths and the weight and balance of the aircraft.  The pilot will call a certified weather briefer, estimate the weight of the passengers, fuel and baggage and research appropriate flight charts to collect this information.
Once the route is planned, the pilot will research alternate airports and routes.  For example, if the headwinds are stronger than predicted and an alternate destination airport is required, the pilot will be prepared with the necessary charts, radio frequencies and airport information on hand.
What does this mean for you, the private air travel customer? Unfortunately, route changes often come at the expense of your time.  For instance, when a pilot is not comfortable with the weather prediction at your desired airport, or recommends a fuel stop to ensure enough range in your flight route, this can certainly cause an inconvenience. However, when it comes to air travel, one should always put safety before convenience.

Private Jet Charter: Are Very Light Jets For You?

Private Jet Charter: Are Very Light Jets For You?
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230
Summary:
It’s a bird, it’s a plane…no, its a VLJ. Well, technically VLJs are planes, but they are in a class all their own. VLJ's - aka: very light jets, microjets, personal jets, minijets - are a hot topic these days. Looking like something out of "The Jetsons", these super-sleek, super-economical jets have created a new category in the private aircraft industry and are eagerly anticipated in the charter world...

Keywords:
private jet, private jets, private jet charter,private air charter,flight charter services,flight charter,aviation,private travel,private plane,travel

Article Body:
It’s a bird, it’s a plane…no, its a VLJ. Well, technically VLJs are planes, but they are in a class all their own. VLJ's - aka: very light jets, microjets, personal jets, minijets - are a hot topic these days. Looking like something out of "The Jetsons", these super-sleek, super-economical jets have created a new category in the private aircraft industry and are eagerly anticipated in the charter world. So what's all the fuss about? Well, VLJ's cost much less than small cabin jets, which will open the world of private aviation to a larger segment of the market. Also, since they can easily takeoff and land at small local airports, they allow travelers to avoid high-volume airports and arrive closer to their destinations.
"So what's the catch?" the savvy jet traveler may ask. Well, despite their efficiency and flexibility, their nickname ‘minijet' aptly describes most VLJ cabin interiors. Snug is the word, although cabin interior can vary based on the specific jet sub-category (ie: single-engine, small-cabin, large-cabin). Also, with its limited in-flight services and performance, VLJ flights are best kept to a couple of hours at most, with no more than 4 passengers. However, for short, direct flights to and from smaller airports, VLJ's may be the jet for you. And with the ease of flying privately, business travelers in particular may find VLJS an attractive option over first-class.

Private Air Charter: They're Flying...Why Am I Grounded?

Private Air Charter: They're Flying...Why Am I Grounded?
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461
Summary:
Ever wondered why some private aircraft can takeoff or land at a particular airport and time while others can not?  Many factors influence a pilot's decision when filing a flight plan including: aircraft performance, operational control procedures, weather, altitude of the airport and weight of the passengers, crew and fuel...

Keywords:
private jet, private jets, private jet charter,private air charter,flight charter services,flight charter,aviation,private travel,private plane,travel

Article Body:
The Private Jet Pilot’s Considerations
Ever wondered why some private aircraft can takeoff or land at a particular airport and time while others can not?  Many factors influence a pilot's decision when filing a flight plan including: aircraft performance, operational control procedures, weather, altitude of the airport and weight of the passengers, crew and fuel.  These factors make it difficult to predict flight times, fuel stops and airport selection. I have listed below each category and how it may affect your particular flight.
Aircraft Performance
Not only does each aircraft type have its own performance characteristics, but each individual plane may have different weights, modifications and operating procedures. For example: a typical Citation II has a shorter range than one with a High Gross Kit modification, which allows it to take off and land with additional fuel onboard.   Also, different avionics can affect the weight and balance of an aircraft.  So, it is entirely possible for one Citation II jet to have a range of 1,000nm while another can travel 1,900nm on the same day and route.
Operational Control Procedures
There are over 3,000 FAA certified aircraft operators in the country, and each follows operational procedures which the FAA and third-party auditing firms approve and routinely review to hold aircraft operators accountable. 

Weather
Wind, precipitation and temperature will affect an aircraft's performance characteristics especially when flying into or out of airports with a runway length less than 6,000 feet.  If the runway is wet for example, the aircraft may have to reduce the amount of fuel it has on board to compensate for the slower stopping speed.  Or, a high temperature which thins the air may reduce the aircraft's ability to climb. Pilots speak with a certified weather briefer prior to each flight to help them plan accordingly.  Since weather is variable, an original itinerary that forecasts a direct flight might adjust to include a fuel-stop.  On the other hand, strong tailwinds may permit a direct flight when a fuel-stop was initially planned.
Altitude
High altitude offers unique challenges to pilots as the air is thinner and requires faster takeoff and landing speeds. Surrounding mountains pose additional challenges, which is why, for example, Aspen Airport (ASE) has instituted a curfew between dusk and dawn to increase safety margins.
Weight
Weight is one of the more controllable performance variables and is typically adjusted to compensate for weather and altitude. The number of passengers, crew members, baggage and fuel are all estimated prior to flights in order for the crew to forecast a safe takeoff and landing. 
Most private aircraft operators incur additional costs when they have to delay, re-route or make an additional fuel stop. So, when a crew recommends an alternate, you can be assured they are looking out for your safety.

Flight Coordinator Job Sites

Flight Coordinator Job Sites
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444
Summary:
If you are looking for work as an aviation flight coordinator, opportunities can be found listed with select job sites. Six are featured herein.

Keywords:
aviation employment board, Hotjobs, Monster, Yahoo, Career Builder, Flight Coordinator, aviation

Article Body:
Finding work as an aircraft flight coordinator typically involves submitting your resume  directly to companies that may be hiring. Still, it can be a laborious process trying to track down and find those companies that are hiring. On the other hand, there are several web sites on the internet that list flight coordinator jobs from time to time. No, there aren’t an abundance of jobs available, but if you know where to look, you can make the process easier on yourself.
<b>Aviation Employment Board</b> – A free site, this board lists job opportunities across the spectrum of business and commercial aviation. Registration is free and you can post your resume for free as well. Visit http://www.aviationemploymentboard.net/ for more information.
<b>Monster</b> – On of the largest job sites on the internet, Monster has over 800,000 opportunities available. Aviation job listings are somewhat limited, but some good opportunities are posted from time to time. Registration is free and you can post your resume for free as well. Visit http://www.monster.com/ for more information.
<b>Hot Jobs</b> – Owned by Yahoo, Hot Jobs is a job site that lists several hundred thousand opportunities at any given time. Aviation opportunities are limited, however. Registration is free and you can post your resume for free as well. Visit http://www.hotjobs.com/ for more information.
<b>Career Builder</b> – This is the largest job opportunity site on the internet, with over one million jobs listed. Aviation opportunities are listed; the site compares favorably with Monster as far as the number of aviation opportunities available. Registration is free and you can post your resume for free as well. Visit http://www.careerbuilder.com/ for more information.
<b>Plane Jobs</b> – One of the largest aviation sites on the internet, Plane Jobs lists a variety of opportunities including flight coordinator positions. Sign up for a ten day free trial and then it’s a $59 annual fee thereafter to peruse their database and to post your resume. Visit http://www.planejobs.com/ for more information.
<b>AEPS</b> –  As one of the oldest aviation industry job sites on the internet, AEPS is well known throughout the industry. Claiming to list over 11,000 jobs many of the positions listed are outdated too. AEPS also has a ten day free trial period and then its $114 for a one year membership for flight operations personnel; $74 annually for everyone else. Visit http://www.aeps.com/ for more information.
Other sites listing flight coordinator positions include: Avianation, Climb to 350, Avjobs, and Flight International. Many of the paid sites post the same opportunities as other sites, so there is little need to belong to multiple subscription service sites.

Dubai Aerospace Enterprise

Dubai Aerospace Enterprise
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305
Summary:
Dubai will invest in the aviation business.

Keywords:
Dubai,aviation,aerospace,aircraft,airport,investment

Article Body:
Dubai, prospering from near-record oil prices, plans to invest $20 billion to create a company that will lease planes, develop airports and make aircraft parts to tap into growing demand for air travel in the Middle East and Asia. The family ruled emirate, which owns the largest Arab airline, may buy as many as 50 wide-body aircraft from Boeing and Airbus in the next four years, said Rashid Al-Malik, project director for the planned company, which will be called Dubai Aerospace. "It's not surprising Dubai is moving into these activities because the whole focus of the aerospace industry has shifted eastward in recent years," said Doug McVitie, managing director of Arran Aerospace, a forecasting company in France.
Mr. Al-Malik said Middle Eastern governments including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar had ordered as many as 300 aircraft for delivery in the next five years and Dubai Aerospace would order its first this year.
The Dubai Government at the weekend announced the formation of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise as a holding company with six operating subsidiaries.
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise will be chaired by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al Maktoum, chairman of the Emirates airline group and president of the Dubai department of civil aviation.
Dubai's ambitious foray into the aerospace industry will build on the presence the emirate has already established in the aviation sector through the development of Dubai international airport and the rapid expansion of Emirates into one of the world's leading long-haul airlines.
The business concept here is to create a new hub for aviation, from the leasing and maintenance of planes to training personnel at a new university to operating other airports and even manufacturing aircraft. It clearly makes excellent business sense to lever off Emirates position as a major buyer of aircraft to promote the Dubai Aerospace Enterprise to the aircraft manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus.

Conquering My Fear of Flying

Conquering My Fear of Flying
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664
Summary:
I admit it, I am afraid to fly. And I’m not alone, as many as 1 in 6 adults has at least some fears about flying. For me it’s definitely not a rational fear. In fact all my analytical and logical skills fly right out the window whenever I think about getting on a commercial plane.

Keywords:
fear of flying, afraid to fly, phobia, aviation, travel

Article Body:
I admit it, I am afraid to fly. And I’m not alone, as many as 1 in 6 adults has at least some fears about flying. For me it’s definitely not a rational fear. In fact all my analytical and logical skills fly right out the window whenever I think about getting on a commercial plane. The most amazing part is that I grew up flying. My father owns a small plane and we would go flying every weekend.
In my preteen years I had an aborted takeoff during a commercial flight and while it didn’t scare me at all during the event, when I later found out that it had made the local news I began to see that this was perhaps a bigger deal (it really wasn’t but I was a preteen after all). I also began to recognize my own mortality and realized that I am a control freak and don’t enjoy the thought of putting my life in the hands of pilots I don’t know.
However, I’m gradually working my way out of my fears and back into a state of mind that is not afraid. It’s taking me a lot of time, but I make progress everyday.
My first technique is to get a large inside picture of a commercial plane (preferably one that I’ll be flying in soon) and make it the background image of my computer desktop. This way, every time I get on my computer I’m looking toward the front of an airplane as if I am a passenger. Initially this worked so well my pulse would race and my breathing rate went up. I’ve now conditioned myself to seeing that image so it no longer bothers me.
I also like to watch internet videos of planes taking off and landing. My favorite videos are those that are taken from inside the plane, looking out the window at the wing; hearing the roar of the engines and seeing the ground fall away beneath the plane as it rises upon takeoff. Sitting in my recliner with headphones on and watching those videos enables me to participate in a takeoff without actually being on the plane. I can condition myself to the sights and sounds I would normally experience.
I’ve found several helpful online courses designed to give information to fearful flyers. I use them a lot as I get closer to departure, and I’ve bought every book I can find about conquering one’s fear of flying. I take them with me, I read them often.
I don’t watch news clips or specials about airplane crashes. The media sensationalizes airplane crashes simply because they happen so rarely. That also means they repeat that horrific story over and over, scaring the wits out of unsuspecting people.
There are dozens of helpful statistics about the safety of air travel; The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) says your chances of being in a fatal plane crash are anywhere from 1 in 400,000 to 1 in 10 million depending on the airline you’re flying. To someone who has a genuine fear of flying those numbers don’t mean anything when you’re locked in a steel tube with no way of setting foot on the ground until AFTER you’ve gone through takeoff, landing and turbulence.
I recognize that I need help and am trying to look at air travel from a logical perspective again. Each trip I hope to get a little better. If you are suffering from a similar fear, I encourage you to go through the various online resources available and seek additional professional help if your fears are strong enough and you are unable to get through them on your own. It’s ok. We can get through this and learn to enjoy (or at least tolerate) this means of travel in order to take that awesome vacation, see family or fulfill the requirements of a great job.