Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker has announced that he will not be taking part in the band’s upcoming tour of Australia, and has made an announcement regarding his fear of flying following the tragic accident that he survived in 2008:

“I still haven’t gotten over the horrific events that took place the last time I flew when my plane crashed and four people were killed, two being my best friends…I gave the band my blessing to take another drummer if they still wanted to do the tour without me. I hope to come to Australia again someday perhaps by ship if need be. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a boat that worked with the schedule this time around. Once again I’m sorry to all the fans.”

The band will go ahead with the dates, with Bad Religion‘s Brooks Wackerman filling in for Barker. Full dates are below.

Blink-182 on Tour (Australia)
2/20 Sydney @ Allphone Arena
2/22 Brisbane @ RNA Showgrounds
2/23 Brisbane @ Soundwave – SOLD OUT
2/24 Sydney @ Soundwave – SOLD OUT
2/26 Melbourne Vic @ Myer Music Bowl – SOLD OUT
2/27 Melbourne @ Meyer Music Bowl
3/01 Melbourne @ Soundwave – SOLD OUT
3/02 Adelaide @ Soundwave – SOLD OUT
3/04 Perth @ Soundwave – SOLD OUT

(via Dying Scene)