The flying problem has developed gradually for some people, without any apparent cause. There is no clear reason for people to grow more fearful over time. The fear of flying begins at an average age of 27, so perhaps it’s a matter of age. As we grow older, we tend to care more about our families. When we leave our children or a spouse behind when we fly, we may feel threatened or worried that they will be abandoned, that we will never see them again.