Virgin Atlantic to hold 'Flying without Fear' course at Heathrow Airport

Virgin Atlantic is to hold its first ever Flying Without Fear course (FWF) at Heathrow Airport on 28 August 2005. Virgin Atlantic, in association with FWF Limited, offers one day courses throughout the year, aimed at teaching sufferers how to overcome their fear. The course includes an optional 45 minute flight at the end of the session.

Sir Richard Branson, Chairman of Virgin Atlantic, said, “These courses make a real difference to people’s lives – whether it be the business traveller who despite being a frequent flyer gets anxious on every flight or the grandmother who has never seen her grandchildren on the other side of the world due to her fear of flying – as they complete the course with a new found confidence in their ability to fly without fear.”

The day starts with a brief introduction from the entire team who look after the participants. Two Virgin Atlantic Captains take the morning session and run through detailed information regarding aircraft functions, noises and safety to help attendees gain an understanding of how the aircraft operates. A question and answer session is held at this stage to ensure that any questions participants may have are answered.

The day breaks for a hot lunch and offers the opportunity to ask questions of the team on a one-to-one basis. The afternoon session is led by David Landau, a well-known psychotherapist. He talks in depth about fears and phobias and teaches the skills to help people learn to control their fears, preparing them for the flight. After this they take a short 45 minute flight on a commercial jet. The participants are accompanied on the flight by Virgin Atlantic pilots, cabin crew and ground staff, who can support them and help alleviate any fears. One of the pilots gives a running commentary throughout the flight re-enforcing all that has been learnt throughout the day.

At the end of the session a post-flight debrief takes place and participants receive a free CD specially compiled by David Landau. They will also be presented with certificates to mark their achievement signed by Sir Richard Branson.

After the course, if participants take a flight with Virgin Atlantic, the Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance department will be on hand to help with special requirements tailored specifically to their needs or anxieties regarding the flight. In addition to this there is a ‘Flying Without Fear’ channel available onboard the aircraft, which is narrated by David Landau, who provides a familiar voice to help relax the passenger.

Richard Conway, Director of FWF Limited said, “We are delighted to be introducing the new Flying Without Fear course to Heathrow Airport. Since the course began eight years ago, it has had some amazing results with a success rate in excess of 98%.”

The inclusive day course costs £199 plus VAT.

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