04/07/2022
HOW TO DEAL WITH FEAR OF FLYING
Fear of flight, or aviophobia, is characterized by an often extreme avoidance of planes, or anything associated with flying, including airports.
Someone with severe aviophobia might “organize [their] life around avoiding flying,” as psychologist Patricia Furness-Smith says in Flying with Confidence.
When actually stepping onto a plane, fearful fliers will likely be afraid of one or more of a range of things, from the noises and sensations associated with take-off or landing, to the queasy feeling that often comes with a sudden or prolonged turbulence.
It’s important to learn what triggers your particular flight-related anxiety — for me, it’s typically turbulence — so that you can take steps to anticipate it.
A good knowledge about airplanes, how they work, what causes the sounds you hear during the flight, why we experience physiological sensations such as blocked ears, and how the crew are trained for their job really helps to ground the awareness that you’re in good hands, on a safe mode of transport.
Learn about your fear and your flight
If you can afford to, consider booking a place on a course that addresses fear of flying. If not, there are plenty of free resources both off- and online that you can use to educate yourself about flying. Videos can be a good place to start.
One example features a commercial airline captain who explains what happens during take-off and landing, and how turbulence is uncomfortable but safe.
Instead of indulging in scary, unrealistic fantasies, learn what’s really happening when the seatbelt sign is switched on.
We hope this helps you!
