Wow! That is exciting news. Take lots of photos and videos and post them in HP. About the plane--you are right, valerian prob won't work...try that along with bedtime tea; (or even sipping hot water with lemon); a hot shower before bed; and a relaxation tape.
Then: (this is what the nurse ordered, BTW) use a relaxation tape or hypnosis for your nerves regarding flying. It will be alright. Just give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport and through security. It is very, very different from 20 yrs ago. Make sure you are there at the airport at least 3 hrs ahead of your scheduled flight to go through security and get to the boarding gate. Best of luck to you.