FlyNest vs SOAR
SOAR is a long-running fear of flying program created by an airline captain and therapist. FlyNest is an in-flight companion. Here is how they compare, and who each one suits.
SOAR is one of the best-known names in fear of flying help: a program founded in 1982 by an airline captain who is also a licensed therapist, with books, courses and an iPhone app. FlyNest is a newer app built to keep you company during the flight itself. They overlap less than you might think.
At a glance
| FlyNest | SOAR app | |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | In-flight companion: live map, AI pocket captain, breathing, meditations, short reads | Fear of flying program from a captain-therapist, with lessons and techniques |
| Best moment to use it | The days before and the flight itself | Learning and preparation before flying |
| Works offline in flight | Yes: flight map, breathing, meditations, articles | Check the App Store listing |
| Asks "what was that?" in real time | Yes, Nesty answers about your route and flight phase | No |
| Platforms | iPhone and Android | iPhone |
| App Store activity (Oct 2026) | New, actively updated | First released 2013, last app update listed in 2020 |
Information about SOAR comes from its public App Store listing in October 2026. Features and prices change, so check the store before you decide.
Where SOAR is strong
- Decades of experience with fearful flyers and a methodology developed by a captain who is also a therapist.
- Depth on the psychology of fear, including the feeling of being trapped and losing control.
- A good fit if you want a structured program and are happy to learn before your trip.
Where FlyNest is different
- Built for the moment of fear. When the plane bumps or makes a sound, you can ask Nesty, the pocket captain, and get a plain-language answer about your flight phase.
- A live flight map that works in airplane mode, with time remaining and what comes next.
- Breathing and meditations for each phase: takeoff, turbulence, cruise and landing.
- A plan for the days before, from a week out to the gate.
- Actively developed on both iPhone and Android.
Which one should you choose?
- Choose SOAR if you want a long-established program and in-depth learning before you fly.
- Choose FlyNest if your hardest moments are on board, when you need something to look at, listen to and ask, right now.
- Many nervous flyers combine both: a program or therapy to work on the fear, and an in-flight companion for the day itself.
Frequently asked questions
Is SOAR still available?
The SOAR app was listed on the US App Store in October 2026, with its last update dated 2020. SOAR also offers courses and books outside the app.
Does FlyNest replace therapy or a fear of flying course?
No. FlyNest is a wellbeing companion. If your fear is severe, therapy such as CBT or a structured course is the best foundation, and FlyNest can support you during the flights themselves.
Is there a free alternative to SOAR?
FlyNest's website offers free guides and a free turbulence forecast for your flight. The app itself requires a subscription.
