I've flown on commercial planes over 200 times, starting before I can remember. I'm a pro at MicroSoft Flight Simulator and quite familiar with basic aerodynamics, weather, and how planes work. My friend has a pilot's license and has taken me up several times in a 4-seat Piper Warrior. And my godfather used to pilot H.W. Bush on Air Force 2. And I'm STILL afraid of flying.

It might be one of those things that sticks around forever, and getting over it can't be a prerequisite for flying or I'll never go anywhere. My first helicopter flight, the short hop from Juneau to Mendenhall Glacier and back, was a challenge to myself to be afraid and do it anyway, because the experience would be more than enough reward. And it was.

Temsco, which operates a lot of the helicopter tours in SE Alaska, is extremely professional. An ultra-clear, windless day helped too. If you're going up to Alaska and on the fence about these trips, I highly recommend it. Are they completely safe? I don't know. But it's worth the ride!