[swendoog]

I know for a fact that I would have far less fear (maybe even NONE) if I were the one flying the plane. One of these days I might take your advice and go for some flying lessons.

I know that the issue at its heart, is about control. In a commercial airline flight I have no control over anything, and that's the root of the fear. It's why I'm not afraid of driving, despite knowing my risks are statistically MUCH higher. At least when I get behind the wheel, I feel like I have the ability to do something about risks as they arise, even if my chances of reacting in time are extremely small, at least I can do something.

I couldn't help but think about being on that flight, for 30 minutes, knowing it was going to crash and being completely unable to do anything about it. I've always wondered what would be going through other people's minds? I would be having a crisis, and possibly would die from a heart attack before the plane even crashed.

For what it's worth, I'm a huge proponent of self driving cars BECAUSE I recognize the potential for a much safer world.