Ativan is generic Valium, and quite effective. Much better choice than sleeping meds.

I used to be frightened of flying, and it's the night before that's a problem, as well as the pre-flight waiting.

So I recommend she take 1/2 a tablet at bedtime. She will sleep well without worry or hangover. Then the other half in the morning. And if she's really panicky, a whole pill when you get to the airport. They take about 20 minutes to kick in.

You can take one every four hours, or 1/2 a pill every two/four hours. Well, you can take a lot more, but not for the novice

If there's time, it never hurts to try it out at home first.

I've taken ativan for minor procedures when my anxiety and BP was so high they wouldn't perform the procedure. It works within 20 minutes and all goes well.

Enjoy the trip.