Bullshit or the real deal?
1. Is his anxiety the real deal, or a bullshit item to get on another team?
2. Would you, as his coach, want any player who didn't travel with the team?
Answer to 1. If he traveled in college, then he should be able to travel in the pros. I'm also a 'white knuckle' flier, and haven't been on a plane in about 4-5 years. I'm not afraid of crashing, but I just absolutely hate being in a crowded area like on a plane. So, in this context, I'm would be just as uneasy in a bus or even traveling in a back seat versus being on a plane.
Answer to 2. I don't want any of my players doing their own travel planning. If we play New Orleans, San Antonio, or Dallas, I want all my team together versus all 11 plus one player who will arrive when he can. Also, the drive to New Orleans is around 5 or so hours, while San Antonio is around 3-4, and Dallas around 5 hours. The flight to any of these 3 cities is usually under an hour. No way would I believe the my player would be fresh and ready to play after a 3-5 hour trip, versus a flight under an hour.
As a coach, I don't think he's worth the extra worry and problems. I do have compassion for his travel anxieties, but IMHO the bus vs. plane difference isn't worth the problems. If I were in Rocket management, I would assist with a shrink or meds that would settle his anxiety, but no way would I approve him traveling on his own bus, not even for Texas or New Orleans games.