Virgin Atlantic releases iPhone app featuring panic button for anxious flyers

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Virgin Atlantic has released an iPhone app featuring a panic button aimed at anxious flyers.

The airline's first app is based on its Flying Without Fear course, which claims to have a 98 per cent success rate.

The Flying Without Fear app was developed in partnership with Mental Workout, a software company which specialises in stress relief.

It features a video explanation of the flight process, frequently asked questions, relaxation exercises and a fear attack button for emergencies with breathing exercises.

Sir Richard Branson, president of Virgin Atlantic said the app was designed to help people overcome fear of the unfamiliar aircraft, the strange noises a plane makes, and of losing control.

"Our first iPhone app will bring the benefits of our successful Flying Without Fear course to millions of people around the world who are now using mobile technology to make their lives better," he said.

"The app will put many travellers at ease and enable them to prepare for their first Virgin Atlantic flight."

A complaint letter to Virgin Atlantic was recently praised as the "funniest ever" complaint letter.

The six-page letter written by disgruntled passenger Oli Beale focused on Mr Beale's dissatisfaction with his in-flight meal.

The letter proliferated across the internet and email. Sir Richard later telephoned him personally to apologise and invited him to select the food and wines for future Virgin flights.

Source: Telegraph