I heard that there are classes specifically made to combat fear-of-flying, which teach you the basic science of flight, and also explains to you the different noises and sights which you may experience during the flight (ie: it's normal to hear the engines lowering right after take-off, or a cranking noise right after take-off and before landing, or to see steam coming out of the vents, etc...). Apparently once the flyer has a better understanding of the process and doesn't view it as magic, some of the fear goes away. Of course, even for an experienced flyer, some situations can be slightly scary, so keep in mind that you're not alone.