For many people, flying is a necessary evil, but it can be torture for others! How can you overcome this fear of taking to the air? While plane crashes seldom happen, they are usually reported. You will see graphic images of debris and strewn bodies and luggage. This will naturally fill one with so much fear, and only the brave ones can bear the thought of boarding a plane.
Take examples of the worst plane crashes in modern-day history. The Malaysian Flight 370 simply vanished while cruising over the Indian Ocean. Do you remember Flight 17, which was shot down in Ukraine? Or the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 that killed all 157 onboard? They all share the same tragic ending. This, coupled with the fact that the largest plane manufacturer – Boeing – is currently being investigated for its safety practices, will certainly make you want to reconsider your trust in airplanes. However, the truth of the matter is that your fear of flying is irrational as you have a higher chance of dying in a car crash than in a plane accident, just like you are more likely to die if you are a heavy smoker than playing card games at vulkan casino.
What is Aviophobia?
Before going into the meat and potatoes of this article, it’s important to understand the definition of aviophobia. Also known as the fear of flying, aviophobia is the prevalent type of anxiety disorder that can considerably impair your social and personal life. Research shows that the consequences from aviophobia can vary from feelings of embarrassment to career and relationship limitations.
How to Overcome Aviophobia?
Aviophobia can be a significant hurdle for anyone who travels frequently. A journey that would only take 1 hour of your time through flights can end up taking a whole day if you are making it by road. To help you overcome these challenges and, consequently, the inconveniences caused by time wastage, we’ve prepared these tips for you to read through:
- Face your fears. You cannot overcome aviophobia if you don’t face your fears. The first and most important thing to do is figure out why you are afraid to board that plane and examine how your anxiety reaction is triggered. By doing this, you are identifying your triggers so that you can contain your fears once anxiety levels are low. It’s easier to manage what sets you off by learning it first!
- Step onto the plane armed with knowledge. This might sound unreasonable, but arming yourself with knowledge and information about past aviation accidents might help you relax on a flight. Understanding why these planes went down, and the necessary measures put in place to prevent the accidents from happening again will help ease your anxiety. You can watch videos of tests planes undergo before being approved to take to the skies. This can help you relax, knowing you are safe while flying.
- Talk to your flight attendants. What other ways to overcome your fears by talking to someone who frequently flies? Flight attendants are trained to calm their passengers before, during, and even after flights. Many of these attendants are trained to handle hyperventilation, fainting, and a list of other health incidents that may occur during midflight. Moreover, they are required by their respective airlines to undertake in-person training every year to ensure they remain up-to-date on emergency procedures. Fun fact: while many of the flight attendants were inspired by movie stars to take their careers, some drew their inspiration from real-life accidents. They signed up as attendants to help passengers relax on their flights.
- Travel with a trusted companion. If you don’t trust the flight attendant, your next best option is to travel with someone you trust. A little support from a close family member, friend, or partner will certainly help you overcome your aviophobia. Before the flight, ensure you discuss your fears and expectations with them. This will help them know the best way to help you overcome the fear.
- Pick a seat that helps you avoid your trigger. One of the things you have control over on a flight is picking your seat. When booking your ticket, you can pick the seat you’d like to occupy, albeit at an extra cost. As a rule of thumb, before overcoming your anxiety, stay away from the window seats. Book a seat that is next to the aisle, which tends to be helpful for those who experience restlessness and are claustrophobic. It could also be helpful if you upgrade to first or business class.
All of us have fears, and the most interesting part of fears is overcoming them. The process can be long, but the result is worth it: imagine you can travel worldwide by plane investigating new countries. Follow our tips and become the one who loves flying.
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