Here's a proposed compromise on the flying issue that could potentially satisfy both the community and Ion Hascostus:
Pathfinder pt.1 is available as soon as the expansion launches and unlocks flying, but at 100% speed.
Pathfinder pt.2 comes in x.1.0 and boosts flying speed to 200%.
Pathfinder pt.3 comes in x.2.0 and boosts flying speed to 310%.
This way people can stay immersed in the world while not having to fight every minor bump on the road.