6 Tips To Overcome Your Fear Of Flying

Contrary to popular belief, having a fear of flying is not a rare condition. It affects a large portion of the population. There are various ways to overcome this fear, such as using exposure therapy and carrying certain items with you. Before you go on a flight, you should have a clear understanding of your anxiety triggers.

1. Demystify Turbulence

Although turbulence can happen due to wind currents, it is not something that affects the safety of flying. Planes are designed to minimize and handle turbulence. According to Korry Franke, a pilot, seeing the plane’s wings go down and up as it experiences turbulence should not make you fear that it will eventually come apart. Instead, be thankful that those wings are designed to smooth out the bumpy ride.

Today, aircraft are equipped with technology that can predict the areas of turbulence that will affect a flight. This helps pilots avoid these areas and provide the best possible experience.

2. Fly a Better Aircraft

Much larger commercial aircraft get a bad rap for being unable to handle turbulence. This can lead to a lot of anxiety for those who fear flying. One way to overcome your fear is to fly in a better aircraft, such as a private jet. 

A Houston private jet charter can offer a much better flying experience. Not only will the flight be smoother, but it will also be a shorter flight. In a private jet charter, you will be able to arrange accommodations to ensure your flight is comfortable.

3. Learn About Flight Safety

According to Franke, airplanes are complex and mystical machines that make strange noises. They operate in a system with little parallels to what people understand. 

So, to help ease any fears, learn how planes are designed to endure emergencies. Preparedness is important in times of emergency, and knowing that you can handle certain scenarios can help ease any worry.

Researching air circulation in an airplane can also help alleviate your fears about getting COVID-19. Fresh air is pumped into the cabin every three minutes. Any recycled air is subjected to HEPA filters, which can remove 99.9 percent of harmful particles, such as viruses and bacteria.

4. Get Comfort From the Flight Attendants

Always have a flight attendant by your side, as they are your advocate. According to Jennifer Johnson, a flight attendant for Jetsetter Chic, the company that provides travel wellness, the attendants are trained to handle various health issues that can occur onboard an aircraft.

They’re experts in air safety, and every year, flight attendants are required by their employers to undergo in-person training. This ensures that they’re up-to-date with the latest emergency procedures. Johnson says that the company’s priority is ensuring the passengers are safe.

5. Pick the Best Seat

One of the most important decisions that passengers make when it comes to flying is their seat selection. If you’re worried you might not feel comfortable in the air, it’s important to consider spending a little extra for that seat. Before you start flying, you must identify your fears.

If you’re afraid of heights, you should avoid the windows. If you need to keep up with what’s happening outside, you can park yourself in a window seat. If you’re feeling restless or claustrophobic, aisle seats may be helpful. First-class or business-class upgrades can also be beneficial.

6. Talk With a Therapist

If you’re still afraid of flying, you should seek professional help. According to Dr. Rachel Kutner, a clinical psychology fellow, individuals can be helped through various forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Medical professionals can also provide anti-anxiety medication.

If seeing a therapist doesn’t help, then hypnosis might be a good alternative. According to Eli Bliliuos, a hypnotist, hypnosis works by inducing the unconscious mind to release anxiety and fear. Various factors can trigger this process, such as a bad experience or a parent’s fear of flying.

Final Thoughts

Flying doesn’t have to be a scary experience forever. With some of these tips, your fear of flying could become a love for flying.