For many people, the main headache when flying involves lost suitcases, checked baggage fees and crowded flights. However, a poll conducted by Newsweek discovered that over 50% of Americans have experienced fear while aboard a plane. Over 35% of Americans have admitted to having an actual fear of flying. If you’re one of these people, boarding a plane can be a stressful and scary experience. Here are a few quick tips to help you to conquer your fear of flying.
Tip #1 – Be Early for Your Flight.
If you’re already anxious about boarding a plane, having to rush to your departure gate can simply increase your anxiety. Help make your airport experience less stressful by arriving at least two hours before your scheduled departure. If you are departing from a particularly busy airport, you may even want to arrive three hours early. This will give you more than enough time to pick up your tickets, check your baggage and get through security.
Tip #2 – Check Out the Airport Lounge.
If you’re already flying business class, you may have access to the airport’s VIP lounge. These lounges are designed to be a comfortable and relaxing environment where passengers can get away from the craziness of the airport. However, if you’re not flying business class, you may have to pay for a pass in order to access the lounge. Some airlines offer a complimentary “first time” pass to the lounge, so be sure to ask at the service counter. Depending on your budget, paying around $50 for a pass to the lounge may be well worth it to help decrease your anxiety.
Tip #3 – Choose an Aisle Seat.
By choosing to sit in a seat near the aisle, you’re less likely to feel claustrophobic while on the plane. An aisle seat also allows you to have greater freedom of movement once the plane has reached a stable altitude. If you can, get a seat that is in one of the “exit rows”, which have the emergency exits out the side of the plane. These seats sometimes have additional leg-room, though you will have the responsibility to help passengers evacuate the plane in the event of an emergency.
Tip #4 – Bring Something Distracting.
Studies have shown that distracting yourself with a situation that involves a significant amount of thought can help to reduce anxiety. Though a book or magazine can be a good distraction, many experts suggest audio distractions as being the most effective. While soothing music can help, you may also want to consider bringing an audiobook. No matter which audio distraction you choose, it’s best to choose something that you are unfamiliar with, such as a new CD or group of songs that you haven’t heard yet.
Tip #5 – Be Prepared.
While dealing with the fear of flying, the last thing you want to be worried about is being tired, hungry or uncomfortable. Plan ahead for your flight. Wear comfortable clothes that are loose-fitting, and shoes that are easy to remove. If you are meeting someone important following your flight, you can always change while at the airport. Bring several snacks, in case you don’t find the airplane food particularly appetizing. If you plan to sleep on the plane, bring a small travel pillow and a blanket. If you plan to sleep on a day flight, a soft eye mask can help to block out any excess light.
Tip #6 – Try to Relax.
Every time you feel yourself becoming anxious about flying, remember that the actual chance of your plane experiencing problems during flight is extremely low. In reality, the chance of dying on a commercial airline crash is about 10,500,000 to 1! Airline pilots undergo extensive training, which even involves flying a plane that has one (or both) of its engines disabled.
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- 5 Important Airplane Safety Tips
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