don't be planting the seeds of terror, think positive as to what a great experience it will, how many things you will see and enjoy in a different state of mind - not the fear - make sure you have yourself plenty of gum and some candy for that "craving" if it should come about - try not to think about wow, i am sober, just enjoy the things because you are sober. Now of course, if it's a true "fear" of flying you may want to consider some ear phones or an ipod with some Zen music to help keep you relaxed during the ride -

Peace to you and enjoy the "new" experience

I can only give you practical advice here - if you like to read, get a book that you KNOW will be a good one -maybe part of a series that you've read in the past. Start reading it the day before, so that you can get into the plot. Then bury yourself in it for the flight.

This always works with me. There's no reason to drink on a plane, and if you're like me, you feel like crap by the time you land. Just find something to completely occupy your mond while you're there.

Carebear & Jacker gave some good suggestions. According to your profile you don't do AA anymoreI was going to suggest maybe some meditation books or something to offer spiritual comfort.

thank you all..i don't do aa in this messed up town of mine but i may make a couple of meetings while i'm out there..maybe i'll stay up the night befor so i'll be tired and sleep on the plane and a good book is a good idea..i'm terrified of flying but maybe when we get in the air it wont be so bad.

I was also terrified about travelling; I had all my excuses ready. I just felt safe; I didn't want to go anywhere there was a risk to my life. I spoke to people and shared it at AA meetings. It was such a terrifying thing mentally; I decided not to face it. But I had to do it eventually, when the day came anyone would of thought I was going to my death. I went through the motions of how I would feel, the panic attacks, anxiety and the feeling of being helpless. I did experience the panic attacks and anxiety but they were manageable. I was so proud of myself, I was able to face this a gigantic fear to me, without a drink. I felt ashamed that I did not have the courage to face this fear before. But I did it and it has no hold on me mentally anymore. I love to travel now; it is amazing how we can become prisoners of our own minds. If you want to be free spiritually this is just your next step.

Do not chicken out by drinking.
Do not fail yourself, by having no self-belief.
You have every right to be on that plane.
Why should you be hidden away, whilst everyone else enjoys life?
Youre one of the worlds beautiful people, so go out and let the world see you.
You will get through this, just believe.

Only my experience but i have found flying sober very much easier than flying drunk.

The last few times I flew when drinking I had terrible panic attacks, had to worry about access to alcohol, had to make sure I had drunk enough to be sure I wouldn't have any withdrawal but not so much that they wouldn't let me fly. etc etc.

Flying sober was a completely different experience and loads of fun.

To me, this is a perfect example of old habits we need to break. Whether it's just changing your mind about it or breaking that habit with something different and positive. It's whats you are familiar with doing so naturally, you want to do it! Consistency is comforting whether it's good or bad. Keep being honest with yourself and others about this. It will weaken it's power. Celebrate that you recognized this and be proud for yourself!

Something to consider... Us alkies don't like to stop drinking after just one.. Do you realize you can be arrested or not allowed on a plane for being intoxicated? Just keep in mind that we drunks don't realize when we have had too many. You may feel confident as to not appear intoxicated but sober people can always tell. xx

they wouldn't let you fly nicky? i'm surprised they let me on the plane 7 yrs ago..i was a mess with a suitcase full of thunderbird wine..i must have reaked of cheap wine lol..i'll get thru this..just won't be easy..thanks everyone

Ahhhh, the flying cocktail lounge...know it well. I logged almost a half million miles on AA (american airlines) alone while drunk. What worked for me was a good book and sometimes taking a little benadryl to fall asleep. However, once I saw the drink cart go past, the craving subsided.

Many airline employees disregard it as they are usually behind schedule as it is and it causes a disruption in ways they don't want to deal with. I've seen it happen at times and have gotten rather drunk on a plane myself or at the bar awaiting my flight. Boarding with someone makes a difference too and the level of intoxication matters. I flew for years usually twice a week all over the country (required by my employment at the time)...

They always did let me fly but once or twice it was a close run thing. I was flying a couple of times and they said I was too drunk to go on the plane but in the end they always let me on.

Once was to Amsterdam which I think was pretty unreasonable - why would you go to Amsterdam if you didnt want to be under the influence!!

I hope you have a great time and find that flying sober is cool. I was scared the first time but it was so much better than drunk.