It seems that the Virgin Atlantic mob have decided that if they want to increase the passenger numbers then they better start recruiting from the Afraid of Flying minority/majority. What better way to do this than with the Virgin Atlantic Flying Without Fear iPhone application? The application provides flying FAQs, video based inflight explanations, relaxation exercises and tips to prepare yourself for future flights. All this help for just US$4.99 from the iTunes store. [Via the Sydney Morning Herald]
Many people suffer anxiety at the prospect of flying. These fears range from anxiety at booking a trip to complete inability to board an aircraft. Whether it is the unfamiliar aircraft, the strange noises a plane makes, or the fear of losing control, this app is designed to help people overcome their personal fears.
Tags: iphone, virgin+atlantic, self+help, fear+of+flying+iphone+app
This app may recruit those afraid of flying but it not to help them overcome the problem. Why?
This "app" is based on breathing exercises which research shows is completely useless for fear of flying. See an example of the research yourself athttp://pn.psychiatryonline.org/cgi/content/full/4…
There are programs that research show to be highly effective, such as SOAR. Advanced programs are based on brain scan studies that have show us how the brain regulates emotion.
This app, though, is based on Branson salesmanship not psychological science.