Article June 23, 1997 Issue

Fearless flight

Robert E. Norris

After two troubling airline crashes, a number of associates and strangers asked me, Is it safe to fly? They seemed to feel that I, as a recently retired airline pilot, might be able to provide some comfort to alleviate their concern.

The airline industry in the United States estimates that over twenty-five million Americans would prefer not to fly on commercial aircraft. Some people have never flown and don't know what to expect; others have to fly regularly but are extremely uneasy about the experience. I have at times been involved with efforts to help people overcome their fear of flying and have participated in clinics where I was able to explain the facts of flight, how aircraft are maintained, the role of flight attendants and the air-traffic-control system, weather factors, and the safety record. Understanding the facts about flying can help. But there is something more we can do to overcome fear as we approach a scheduled flight. That is to continue to learn more about God's nature and His protective love for everyone.

The Bible contains ample evidence that God is ever present, all-powerful, and all-loving. What this tells us is that none of us can be in a place or a situation where His help is not available. If we think along these lines, we are less prone to being afraid. We overcome fear and prove the powerful presence of God when we set our flight path in His hands. Science and Health points out, "We should master fear, instead of cultivating it" (p. 197).

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