Oldgreymare, I also have a fear of flying, but I do it anyway because I want so badly to go on holiday. My fear begins the moment I step on to the plane and my anxiety rises to a horrible pitch as the plane takes off. I have tried many things to overcome this, i.e. a good glug of wine whilst in the departure lounge, sedatives from the doctor, all to no avail. On one particular flight (in 1997) my husband mentioned to one of the friendly stewards on board of my fear. He disappeared for a while and then came back to tell me that the captain had invited me to visit the flight deck. I duly plucked up courage to walk to the front of the plane and entered the cockpit, the captain and co-pilot sat me in the jump seat where I remained for the rest of the fight, they were marvellous, explaining everything, captivating my interest and amazement, I even remained there for our landing at Heathrow and watched Concord taking off directly in front of us. It was awesome. However..... we then boarded a 747 for an onward flight to Canada, and yes, as soon as I took my seat all my old fears returned. I do fly, but like you I feel really scared until I feel the wheels touch the runway bringing my ordeal to an end, for the time being anyway. I think there may be a difference between a phobia and just being scared, perhaps you could go on one of these courses to see if it would help. Good luck
