How to overcome a fear of flying
For some, the high cost of airfares, unnecessary airport delays and lost luggage has made flying a hassle. But for others, flying is simply terrifying. Fear of flying can be caused by a number of factors, including fear of heights. Many fearful fliers feel an irrational anxiety that their plane will malfunction and crash, we offer a few tips on how to overcome a fear of flying.
Familiarise yourself with your plane. Get to read online or ask questions about your plane looks can make it seem a little less scary.
Know what to expect. Learning the basics of how airplanes work can go a long way towards alleviating your anxiety. For instance, understanding how a plane can continue to fly even if an engine fails can help you feel less concerned about your aircraft malfunctioning.
Choose an aisle seat. If you’re prone to claustrophobia; you’ll feel less hemmed in by other people, and you’ll be able to get up and move around the cabin more easily. This also makes it easier to avoid looking at those sky-high views which might make you nervous.
Monitor your media intake before flying. This is worth mentioning: try as much as possible to avoid airplane disaster movies, news coverage and papers of plane crashes or other scary media images. Remember that the vast majority of flights arrive safely, but only the problem flights make the news.
Think positive. In the days leading up to your flight, it’s easy to let the anxiety build. Instead, try to focus on more positive things — like all the fun things you’ll do once you reach your destination because you will surely get there.
