Hi Shawn,
I developed a fear of flying myself. I've grown up around small planes and have been a passenger in commercial's all my life as well. I've never liked being in the back of a jet, but I handled it fine for many years. Around 30 or so, something happened and it became harder for me to get in a plane. I would dread having to fly from LAX to Europe. Last time I went, we were stuck in turbulence for about 2 hours over the Atlantic. It was rough for me, but I made it. I also have had problems in my dads small Bonanza. I even had an issue with him when we fly to Aspen a few weeks ago.
I tried a hypnotherapist before my last Europe trip, but I don't think that works on me. Something to consider though....
I started taking flying lessons last week and I am at the point where I need to practice stalls. Very unnerving still, but it's getting better. Especially when I am at the controls. We even did some spins today. I'm doing okay now, but I think it's mostly because I am at the controls and have so much info thrown at me, I don't have time to get nervous.
Do remember, the plane is designed to withstand soooooo much abuse more than your brain will allow. When your brain is telling you "the wings are going to rip off"... Don't worry, the plane is still happy as a clam.
Good luck! You'll be safe! Don't read the news when you see articles on plane crashes, just makes it worse.
This may get a little unnerving though, especially if you just wake up from a nap..
