British Airways has announced it will bring its “Flying with Confidence” course to Dubai for the first time next month. Previously only offered in the UK and USA, the one-day program will commence on February 17.
A recent survey by the UK’s flag carrier shows that one in four UAE residents have a fear of flying. Of those respondents, 42 percent feel that the fear is detrimental to their quality of life. BA teamed with YouGov to poll 1,000 fliers across the Gulf nation.
The course, which has helped more than 45,000 people to fly over the past 25 years, covers the technical side of flying – including how an aircraft operates during turbulence. A specialised counsellor is also on hand to provide expert advice on relaxation techniques, and how best to deal with anxiety and feelings of panic.
“The survey also revealed that for UAE residents, the biggest cause of anxiety around flying is concerns about safety, followed by a fear of the unknown, so it is a real pleasure to help people in the Emirates fly with confidence.” said BA captain and course organiser, Steve Allright.
The airline claims a 98 percent success rate to date for the course, which is tailored to fit participants regardless of whether they have a mild anxiety about flying, are unable to board an aircraft or develop a sudden debilitating phobia. Course participants also qualify for a 10 per cent discount on any British Airways flight, in any cabin class.
Dubai had the world’s second busiest airport by passenger traffic in 2013 with 63,971,502 people passing travelling in and out of the emirate by air. Heathrow clings in the top spot with 66,471,668 passengers last year.