For some, flying is simply a hassle, due to high prices, airport delays and lost luggage. But, for other travelers, flying is more than an inconvenience; it's terrifying.
Fear of flying can be caused by a number of factors, including fear of heights. Many apprehensive fliers worry that their plane will malfunction and crash. Other travelers worry about hijackings, or are alarmed at the idea that they're not in control of the aircraft that's carrying them.
Fear of Terrorism, A Plane being Hijacked Whether or not an individual chooses to fly is a personal decision. For those travelers who are resolute not to let the fear of terrorism change your way of life, CheapOair-Experts offers tips on how to overcome fear of flying.
Pre-Trip Planning
Knowing the facts: Knowing how the airplane functions can go a long way in eliminating your fear of flying. For example, knowinghow a plane can continue to fly even if an engine fails can help you feel less concerned about your aircraft malfunctioning. There are several sites who offer easy to understand guides that explain causes of turbulence, and what's behind those scary sounds during takeoffs and landings.
Choosing Your Seat: Most airlines booking engines allow you to book your desired seat. In case you are claustrophobic, we suggest you go for aisle seats. This might reduce the anxiety surrounding your claustrophobia because it’s more conducive to mobility around the cabin.
Familiarizing Yourself with the Carrier You’re Flying: Getting to know your carrier and an idea of what the plane your flying looks like can make the journey a lot less scary. Take a look at the pictures of the inside of your carrier. Most important are the inside cabin pictures. Use it as your desktop background. The images might make you feel more comfortable. Also, it would help you visualize yourself on the plane.
Monitor Your Media Intake: Though it might sound like a “no brainer”, in actuality, refraining from news outlets that report plane disasters and movies that highlight crashes and other scary films or articles won’t exacerbate your fears. Keep in mind that most flights arrive on time safely.
Thinking Positively: The closer you get to your departure date, it’s natural to feel more anxious. To combat this, try to focus on more positive things, like all of the fun things you'll do once you reach your destination.
While at the Airport
No Rushing: Always give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport before you’re scheduled to depart. Rushing to the plane and worrying about missing it is only going to add to your anxiety and troubles.
Waiting: Most airlines have private airport lounges that are quiet and luxurious, positioned away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the airport. Generally they are reserved for club members or elite fliers. However, you can always purchase a day pass for $25 to $50, which can be considered a small price to pay for a soothing place to relax and prepare for your flight.
On board
Get to Know the Crew: Meet the folks behind the wheel, as it were. Say “Hi” to the pilot when you board and shake his or her hand. While being greeted by the stewards and stewardesses, introduce yourself and shake their hands, too. Feeling like you’re in a friendly environment with a competent crew will allay your concerns
Who’s In charge:It’s known that many fearful fliers are worried by their perceived lack of control as they have no influence over the safety or performance of the aircraft. Try to regain your composure by reminding yourself that it’s you who has chosen to fly and its only you who can decide how you respond to the experience.
Proper Breathing:In case of increased anxiety, your breathing might become erratic. Try deep breathing, it’s an instant stress reliever. Breathe slowly and deeply for a count of 5 or 10.
Diversion: Music and reading fun books can prove to be a great diversion. Listening to soothing music might help get you into a peaceful frame of mind.
Having a Drink: Though rounds of cocktails aren’t the best choice, having a single cocktail might calm your nerves. This should be done in moderation, of course, and should not be combined with anti-anxiety medications. Alcohol can contribute to dehydration in the arid environment of an airplane. In case you chose to treat yourself to a cocktail, make sure to follow it up with loads of water.
Avoid Caffeine:This and other stimulants can make you even more jumpy
Diversion: Music and reading fun books can prove to be a great diversion. Listening to soothing music might help get you into a peaceful frame of mind.
Go with the Flow:Turning on the air vents above your head as soon as you board will increase the flow of air and will help you feel less claustrophobic.
Additional Help
Anti-Anxiety Medications: If you have an anxiety disorder, or you know that your anxiety will be too heightened to have a decent flight, speak with your doctor and check whether it’s worth taking an anti anxiety pill before your flight.
Professional Help:A licensed therapist, Psychiatrist, or counselor can help you figure out the root cause of your fear of flying and how to overcome it. Do speak to a professional in case you need more assistance in combating your flying phobias.
Online Help: There are a number of special programs and websites that offer help for fearful fliers. They offer free tips, newsletters, forums and an online video course, as well as more comprehensive counseling and programs for those who want to overcome their fears of flying.
Being nervous is a normal response to flying. However, if you’re feeling overly anxious about your first flight, so much so that you might, “Freak out and bail”, we hope you’ll utilize the tips we’ve provided to help you overcome it. After reading this information, you will have confidence to calmly board the plane and remain in control, so you can take off for business, vacations, and every other travel excursion in between.
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