Fear of flying got you down? Or maybe your wings are clipped because of a loved one’s fear? There’s good news. For the first time in its 25-year history, British Airways is bringing its wildly successful Flying with Confidence program to New York.

The one-day course, which has helped more than 45,000 people conquer their fear of flying at programs across the U.K. , takes off at New York’s LaGuardia Airport on April 27.

The day starts with sessions from British Airways pilots who explain the technical side of flying, how an aircraft operates and other areas such as turbulence. Clinical psychologists also provide expert advice on relaxation techniques dealing with anxiety and feelings of panic. The program culminates with a 45-minute flights during which attendees put theory into practice.

British Airways Capt. Steve Allright, one of the course organizers and co-author of Flying With Confidence: The Proven Programme to Fix Your Flying Fears, shares the following tips from the book set for April release.

• Remember that turbulence is uncomfortable but not dangerous. It is a perfectly normal part of flying caused by nature.
• Aircraft like to be in the air. They are designed to be in the air.

• Pilots and cabin crew like to be in the air also, it is a very normal, safe environment for them to be in.

• Split a long flight up into half hour sections. Go with a plan of things to do, perhaps things you never get round to. Write a letter, watch a film, read a book, eat a meal.
• Pilots undergo a rigorous selection procedure and are one of the most highly trained and tested professions on Earth.