Welcome!

Why, hello.

I can only assume you have found this blog by one of a couple of ways. Either you've talked to me about a fear of flight and found it...or perhaps you've found it by Google search for that same topic.

Perhaps you are here by chance.

But the point is...

My name is Rob. I'm a commercial pilot by profession, a role that, I believe, requires not only technical skills but a good all-round understanding of a wide range of factors - all that link in to make flying not only fun, but so safe, as to be THE safest form of transport in the world.

But by nature, humans do not fly. So it is only natural that a large number of us are inherently scared of flight and air travel. This fear is compounded by the fact that a lot of us fly rarely - or even never.

Let's put it this way. Are you afraid to travel in a car? Of course not. Even though the risk of an accident is much higher, the car "stays on the ground" and "is something you do every day without thinking" - so human nature dictates you are comfortable with it.

(Even though there may be drunk, drugged, dangerous, psychotic, physically impaired drivers on the road...poorly maintained vehicles...no skills required to drive in bad weather or at night. All of which are factors that are dealt with in professional aviation.)

So...I'm here to help you.

Flying is growing world wide at a phenomenal rate. Gone are the days of week-long transcontinental train travel or weeks (if not longer) aboard a ship to cross the Atlantic or Pacific. Airlines are increasing in number regularly - and constantly cutting the costs of travel across the world. In this day and age, virtually anyone in a first-world country can afford to fly - at least, domestically.

Flying is also used by companies for staff travel...for pleasure...for public safety (firefighting)...for industry (crop dusting and freight) - it's not a lie to say the world would grind to a halt without aircraft.

So what I am getting at is this. Odds are, if you want to travel, you will do it at least partly by air. Certainly if you want to travel overseas! And why not. Why let a fear that can be controlled stop you experiencing the amazing sights and cultures of the world, affordably and comfortably?

Fear of flying is NATURAL. Many, many people feel it - from a debilitating phobia right through to mild anxiety and unease. For many - the mere thought makes them sick. For others, I often hear "oh, I'm happy with flying except *that* part" - in reference to a part of the flight.

I've had people approach me from all ends of the scales about flying with literally hundreds of questions. I've assisted people from children and teenagers to fly - right through to elderly people.

I just want to point out...that I am NOT a psychologist, counsellor or doctor. I'm not pretending to be - because I'm not. If you suffer clinical anxiety or health issues that flying may affect, I cannot more strong say that you need to speak to a doctor, NOT me, because I am NOT one.

All I am here to do is relieve your fear of flying - by showing you the inside story...telling you the facts...and proving why there is nothing to fear. This works for most people I've helped, who's fear has been of the unknown or has been boosted by horror stories from ignorant others. People who's fears are a product of having never flown and not knowing what to expect. Or have simply watched too much TV.

Those people, my advice will help.

I'm sorry to go so far into it. But I have to state the facts truthfully and CLEARLY.

Just once more.

I am NOT an airline pilot - although I am technically qualified as one in terms of licencing. I use the title "Captain" loosely - because Captain, in aviation, refers to the pilot-in-command of ANY aircraft...big or small. However, as a title, Captain is used by an airline pilot. I am merely a "Mr" - but the title suits my blog nicely to illustrate that I AM a pilot and not an "arm-chair expert".

I am NOT representing the views of any airline, company or professional board.

I am NOT a medical professional and cannot give you clinical advice or assistance.

I AM a professional pilot who is here for the sole purpose of explaining aviation to the average everyday person, so as you can feel safe in the skies.

I hope you enjoy - and can experience the pleasure of the sky.

Rob. :-)