Albany, New York (April 24, 2000) - - - The Albany International Airport will host a special "Fear of Flying" course to assist individuals who are apprehensive about taking to the air.

The program will begin on May 24 and is open to businesses and individuals.

"Mile-for-mile, air travel continues to be the safest form of transportation," said Rev. Michael A. Farano, Chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority. "We believe this course will help comfort individuals and assist them in taking constructive actions that will enable them to conquer their fear of flying."

It has been estimated that up to one in six adults in the United States has a fear of flying. For some, the fear is a phobia, a disproportionate fear that experts say can result in panic attacks. These same individuals might not think twice about getting behind the wheel of the family car and driving down a busy highway. Yet, the insurance industry reports flying is 25 times safer than traveling by automobile.

Dr. Richard Platt, Ph.D., who initiated a Fear of Flying program in the Capital District in 1988, will conduct the three-week course. Dr. Platt is a recognized expert on anxiety and panic disorders and has over 25 years of clinical experience helping individuals overcome their fears and phobias. Dr. Platt is a professional member of the Anxiety Disorders Association of American and the American Psychological Association. He is a partner with Solutions: A Brief Therapy Center, in Albany.

"The fear of flying can place needless restrictions on an individual's quality of life," said Dr. Platt. "Imagine being able to take a important job promotion or an exciting vacation without fear of the travel requirements."

Registration for the program will close on Friday, May 19. The program is structured into three classes that will include an address by a commercial airline pilot. Classes will meet in the Airport's Community Room located on Concourse-B.

The program dates are Wednesday, May 24, 6-9 P.M., and Wednesday, May 31, 6-9 P.M. The program will be limited to 25 individuals. The final session, on Saturday, June 3, will feature a round-trip flight to Baltimore on a Southwest Airlines 737. The fee of the program will be $300. Those interested in registering for the course should contact Dr. Richard Platt at 518 482-1721.

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