Fear of Flying Surveys estimate that fear of flying exists in 10-20% of the population. Some persons have a fear of crashing, while others have a fear of being in an enclosed place with no means of escape. They may fear they will lose control or suffer a panic attack while on the plane.
Behaviors that may suggest an underlying Fear of Flying include:
- Excessive use of alcohol or sedatives, or changes in behavior prior to or during a flight.
- Need to drive to a customer when flying makes more sense.
- Communicating via telephone, fax, or e-mail when face-to-face contact is needed.
- Avoidance of scheduling appointments that necessitate flying.
- Discrepancy in job performance–e.g. below par sales–related to flying vs. driving.
- Refusal to accept job advancement that requires increased flying.
- “Off-handed” comments related to apprehension or fear of flying.
If you’re one of the thousands of people who are limited by a flying phobia, virtual reality therapy might be for you.