About Patrick Smith Expertise I can answer queries on most any issue pertaining to commercial air travel -- from airline service and safety to technical questions about aircraft and flying. I am particularly knowledgable about the routes, service cultures, and safety records of the world's airlines.
Experience Patrick Smith is an airline pilot and the author of Salon.com's popular "Ask the Pilot" series. His book, "Ask the Pilot -- Everything You Need to Know About Air Travel," was published by Riverhead/Penguin in 2004 and was Amazon's pick for the best travel book of that year.
Publications Salon.com, various newspapers and magazines.
Question I cant stand the thought but I am taking a short 3 hr trip this Thursday and I am extremely nervous/scared. What can you tell me that will help put my thoughts at ease?
Answer Please excuse my tardiness in responding; I'm in Africa at the moment.
Your question is an enormous one that I can hardly begin to address without knowing more about what frightens you.
I have written extensively about flight anxiety in my column and in my book. Please see my home page for more info.
