No More Fear of Flying: Tips to Conquer Your Anxiety From A Terrified Flyer

I’ve always been a bit of an adventurer. From backpacking in Colombia, to exploring temples in Bali, I’ve always loved experiencing new cultures and discovering hidden gems. But there was one thing that held me back for years: my fear of flying.

It started in my teens. The thought of being thousands of feet in the air, confined to a metal tube, was terrifying. I’d have nightmares about planes crashing or losing control. As I got older, I realized that my fear was limiting my opportunities. I wanted to see the world, but the thought of getting on a plane filled me with dread.

It wasn’t until I was in my early 20s that I finally decided to face my fear. I booked a short flight to a nearby city and forced myself to go. It was one of the most terrifying experiences of my life. As the plane took off, I gripped the armrests tightly and closed my eyes. I could feel my heart pounding in my chest and my palms were sweating.

But to my surprise, I survived. The flight wasn’t as bad as I had imagined. And when I landed safely, I felt a sense of accomplishment. I had faced my fear and conquered it. From that day on, I’ve been flying regularly and have visited over 70 countries.

Over the years, I’ve developed a few tips for overcoming my fear of flying. Take it from someone who has been there, Trust me, I get it.

Here are my top 10 tips I still use today!

1. Alternative Methods to Flying

If you have a deep-seated fear of flying, consider exploring alternative methods of transportation. Trains, cars, and even cruise ships can offer comfortable and enjoyable travel experiences. To be honest some of my greatest memories have been from road trips and train rides!

2. Communicate with the Flight Attendants

Flight attendants are trained to provide comfort and assistance to passengers with a fear of flying. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them and express your concerns when boarding. Their friendly demeanor and expertise can help alleviate your anxiety.

3. Understand Flying

Familiarize yourself with the facts of flying to reduce the unknown. Learn about takeoff procedures, turbulence, and the safety measures in place to ensure a smooth journey. This knowledge can help mitigate your fears. That way every sensation won’t scare you and you will know more about what to expect. Remember your senses will be in overdrive! Here are a few things to learn:
Takeoff and Landing Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the steps involved in takeoff and landing. Knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety
Turbulence: Learn about different types of turbulence and how it affects the aircraft. Turbulence is a normal part of flying and is rarely dangerous.
Safety Statistics: Research the safety record of the airline industry. Understanding the low probability of accidents can be reassuring.

4. Start Small

One of the most effective strategies for conquering your fear of flying is to start small. Begin with short flights to gradually build confidence and familiarity with the flying experience.

• Choose a Familiar Destination: Select a nearby destination that you’re comfortable with, such as a city within a short driving distance. This will minimize the overall stress of the trip.
• Book a Short Flight: Opt for a flight that is less than an hour long. This will allow you to experience the takeoff, cruising altitude, and landing without feeling overwhelmed.
• Focus on the Process: Pay attention to the sensations and procedures involved in the flight. Observe the takeoff and landing, feel the turbulence, and notice the changes in altitude.
• Celebrate Your Success: After each successful flight, take time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievement. This will boost your confidence and motivation.

By starting small and gradually increasing the duration of your flights, you can gradually overcome your fear and build confidence in your ability to fly. Remember, every successful flight is a step closer to conquering your anxiety.

5. Choose Your Seat Wisely

Opt for an aisle seat, especially on your first flight. This provides easy access to stand up or use the restroom if needed and give you more space. Feeling claustrophobic on top of your fear of flying can be a tough pill to swallow. There are some seats you will want to avoid on your first flight:

Exit Row: While exit rows offer more legroom, you may have additional responsibilities in case of an emergency.
Avoid Middle Seats: If possible, try to avoid middle seats, as they can be more cramped and offer less privacy.

6. Observe the Flight Attendants

A helpful tip is to book a seat on the aisle on the right-hand side of the plane near the front. You can discreetly observe the flight attendants. Their calm demeanor can be reassuring, as they are aware of any potential issues. If they are calm, everything is good and you can relax more.

7. Use Distraction Techniques

Takeoff and landing can be particularly anxiety-inducing for those with a fear of flying. Prepare distractions like your favorite music, a book, or counting to 200 to divert your attention from any sensations.

Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help you stay present and focused.

Prepare a Distraction Toolkit: Create a personalized toolkit of distractions that you find enjoyable and relaxing. This could include your favorite music, a book, a magazine, a puzzle, or a handheld video game.

8. Indulge in Treats

Reward yourself with a favorite snack or treat before takeoff or landing. This can be a positive reinforcement and help you relax.

9. Manage Pre-Flight Anxiety

Address pre-flight jitters by communicating your feelings to your travel companion or seeking professional help from a therapist. Meditation audiobooks can also be beneficial in calming your mind and giving you extra tools to cope with anxiety.

10. Be Kind to Yourself

Remember that you are not alone in your fear of flying. It is a common phobia, and it is okay to feel scared. By understanding your fear and taking proactive steps, you can overcome your anxiety and enjoy the benefits of air travel.

If your fear of flying is affecting your quality of life, consider consulting a professional therapist.

The fear of flying can be a real buzzkill, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. With a little knowledge and a lot of courage, you can conquer your anxiety and soar to new heights. Remember, it’s okay to feel a little nervous, but don’t let it stop you from experiencing the world. So, pack your bags, take a deep breath, and let’s get this show on the road! Happy travels!

Don’t forget to join the Fear Free Trip community! Head over to connect with fellow travelers who understand your struggles. Share your phobia triumphs, swap travel tips, and help others conquer their own travel fears. Together, let’s make the world a more accessible place, one phobia-busting vacation at a time!