Ask Captain Lim

Dear Captain Lim,

I'm sure you get many e-mails like this, but I just wanted you to understand what a difference your website makes to flyers. I am a musician and as such, my work is world wide, and would not be possible, as would anyone's doing this, if it weren't for flying. I have always loved flying, but not been good with heights. I always felt safe flying, so the height didn't bother me. On returning from a recent tour, I had two connecting flights which were the most turbulent of my life.

I wont go through all the stuff you've heard before, just to say that, I too honestly thought I was going to die, how can the plane withstand this much force with the powerful slams and dips. I got off those flights shaking like I never have before, and have since been sleeping badly and having panic attacks at the thought of flying again. I know I must because of work, and I'm sure you know what it feels like, but that absolutely paralyzing gut-wrenching pure terror experienced when you think you will die, and your body does all kind of strange things, including swearing at high volumes, is a feeling I will never forget.

I know you have mentioned this on your site, but if there was an FAA rule that pilots had to talk to the passengers (when safety permits of course) to explain what's happening, it would make so much difference, especially these days with the terror threat.

I was totally prepared to give up my career and never ever fly again after the depth to which that experience affected me. It is your website that has convinced me to fly again, and although I will be apprehensive and a little nervous, I understand what is happening to a plane now, and that the severe turbulence and sinking pockets I encountered is of no danger, even though it is sure as hell feels like it at the time! Even to hear how things work with engine failures, no landing gear is so reassuring, now I feel as if anything could happen and I would be ok with it.

You truly give people the power to change and continue their lives with this site; I hope you understand the enormity of the gift you freely give.

Yours very gratefully,

Andrew Cooksley.

Hi Andrew,

It is nice to hear your feedback. I wish I can reply to more emails but I have to disappoint many because of lack of time.

Enjoy more future flights with greater confidence! :-)