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My sister recently declined to come and visit me in San Francisco over New Year's despite the fact that I'd found her a round-trip fare from San Diego for the very attractive price of $109.  Did she have plans? Was it not in the budget? Are my parties so lame that no-one wants to come to them anymore?

Nope, none of those reasons. Instead it's this: she's scared of flying.

I'm sure we all know someone who's a nervous flier, so I'm here to pass along the good news: Virgin Atlantic has teamed up with Apple to offer its highly popular Flying Without Fear course---which has a 98% success rate---as an application for the iPhone and iPod Touch.

The app costs just $4.99 to download---a bargain compared to the hefty price tag of the in-person course, which is around $300---and features relaxation exercises, a personalized program with daily advice, answers to common questions, and even a "fear attack button for emergencies." (Does this eject you from the plane? Sadly, no: but it does give you breathing techniques and quick tips.)

So basically, I know what my sister's getting for Christmas this year. And maybe next year, she'll accept my New Year's invitation.

How about you? Are you a nervous flier? Do you think something like this would help?