Is the pleasure of the upcoming trip overshadowed by the fear of flying? Don't waste more time on the road buying train or bus tickets, but try to get your aerophobia under control. But how to overcome the fear of flying on an airplane?
The main causes of aerophobia: where does fear come from?
To make aerophobia a thing of the past, identify what causes fear. Psychologists identify several types of fear that prevent you from traveling comfortably.
Distichiphobia and its consequences
You may be afraid of flying on an airplane due to dystychiphobia. This is the name for fear of accidents. This reason is the most common, and the concerns are understandable: the media massively covers every crash. If car accidents received this kind of attention, people would be afraid to get into cars.
To calm your nerves, check out the statistics. You will find that plane crashes are very rare! But sometimes people think: “If bad things happen, they must happen to me.” Are you one of them? Contact a psychotherapist who will conduct a course of conversations and recommend pills to calm you down.
Acrophobia and ways to combat it
An obsessive fear of heights, called acrophobia, interferes with the enjoyment of flying. To eliminate it, you often have to look for professional help. After all, it’s natural to be afraid of an unfamiliar environment!
But in some cases, the fear goes away when you make a little effort and start traveling by air. After 3-4 flights the situation ceases to be unfamiliar.
Claustrophobia and effective measures to eliminate it
Fear of enclosed spaces, or claustrophobia, can play out in the cabin of an airplane. You can get rid of it by purchasing a ticket for a seat near the porthole. In some cases, sedatives help. Sometimes passengers resort to alcoholic drinks, but the effect is debatable: fear can become stronger, and general well-being worse.
Fear of Losing Control: Trust the Pilot
Often fear is caused by loss of control over the situation. Passengers can only rely on the skill of the pilot, who is responsible for their health and life. Fears can often be alleviated if the crew personally greets travelers upon landing and greets them with smiles. Seeing who will fly the plane, people calm down.
Fear of terrorist attacks
The fear of terrorists, especially on some international routes, is natural. But fears are in vain: after the 9/11 incident, security measures have been strengthened to the maximum. Passengers themselves are vigilant, providing information to the crew when necessary.
Remind yourself of the case of terrorist Richard Reid: an attempt to blow up an airplane failed due to the quick reaction of those around him. After takeoff, passengers smelled something burning and complained to the steward. He noticed that Reid was trying to light a match and reminded him that these actions were unacceptable. A few minutes later, a woman sitting nearby noticed her neighbor’s strange behavior. She asked what he was doing and received no answer. Then she saw that Reid was trying to light the fuse from the bomb in the boot, and tried to interfere. The woman loudly called for help, and then, together with the flight attendant and other passengers, immobilized Reid. They tied the unlucky terrorist with seat belts and even headphone cords. The active intervention of passengers prevented the tragedy.
There is no reason to worry, as security services are taking all possible measures. And if necessary, remind yourself that you are able to influence the situation.
Hydrophobia: how it ruins travel
Are you comfortable with short flights, but intercontinental ones turn into a nightmare when the ship flies over the ocean? The phenomenon is called hydrophobia, and it is caused by unpleasant experiences in the past.
If panic attacks occur when flying over water, look for other flights. Was there no alternative? It will be easier to calm your nerves by purchasing a ticket for a seat away from the porthole.
Ochlophobia: fear of crowds
Psychotherapists say that for some aerophobes the reason is not the fear of getting off the ground. A passenger may be calm about the fact that the aircraft is rising to a high altitude, but feel discomfort in the circle of strangers. The problem intensifies when a person with ochlophobia finds himself in a small chair, sandwiched by neighbors on both sides, and cannot stretch his legs.
Traveling in business class helps alleviate some of the fear. If you can only afford economy class, choose aisle or window seats: you will have 1 neighbor.
Emetophobia: when nausea becomes a threat
Travelers' anxiety is also associated with emetophobia - the fear that they will not be able to cope with the onset of nausea. If you want to avoid the problem, take a tablet of cyclizine or lorazepam (check with your doctor first). And to avoid taking medications, drink a glass of warm milk before the flight: it calms your nerves.
Aerophobia or simple suspiciousness
If you are afraid to fly on an airplane, first determine the type of problem. Perhaps you don’t have aerophobia, and you just need to overcome simple suspiciousness.
It is normal to be afraid of unfamiliar situations, so nervousness before takeoff is not considered a manifestation of a phobia. But when it is accompanied by physical symptoms (rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, dizziness and fainting), you cannot do without a specialist. He will carry out treatment in several stages:
- In case of severe phobia, the psychotherapist will select medications that alleviate the patient’s condition.
- The doctor uses individual therapy, during which he will identify the cause of the problems. Half the success depends on whether you can identify what is causing your anxiety.
The methods are used individually or in combination, and the scheme is developed by a specialist. If you suffer from a severe phobia rather than increased anxiety, your chances of coping on your own are slim. Trying to avoid flying by any means possible? The problem cannot be solved by simply wanting to pull yourself together.
By seeking help at an early stage in the development of aerophobia, you will quickly achieve results.
Common stereotypes and their inconsistency
If the issue is suspiciousness, all that remains is to figure out how to overcome it. Consider whether it is caused by a lack of knowledge and belief in stereotypes. Common misconceptions include the following:
- Russian pilots allegedly abuse alcohol and are therefore unreliable. But all airlines have international certificates confirming that their services comply with international standards.
- It is safe to fly only on airlines of large corporations. If the plane is at the airport, then it has passed the necessary checks. In practice, Samara Airlines air transport will be as safe as an Etihad Airways airliner.
- Flying an old plane is dangerous. In fact, air transport is divided into 2 categories: serviceable and faulty. The service life does not matter, because the service life of aircraft is initially long. Delta Air Lines' fleet consists of 50% aircraft over 20 years old. This does not prevent it from occupying a leading position in the world in passenger transportation.
If you approach the issue critically, your fears will turn out to be unjustified. Are you afraid that a drunk passenger will throw a heavy object through the window and everyone will die after the cabin depressurizes? This is impossible: the glass consists of several layers, and in addition it will not break due to the difference in pressure outside and in the cabin. Are you afraid that a bird will get into the aircraft's engine? In modern models, the mechanisms duplicate their work, and the failure of one will not cause a tragedy. Even if all the engines are clogged with birds, the airliner will not crash, but will slowly glide to the ground. The pilot and passengers in the United States found themselves in a similar situation, and the crew coped with the task of landing the plane in New York without causing damage to buildings.
Don’t invent reasons for a possible disaster: 99% of fears are unjustified.
How to stop being afraid of flying
How to overcome the fear of flying on an airplane? If you feel like you can handle it on your own, try a few methods. Among them you will find one that works!
Knowing how an airplane works: study the hardware
When preparing to travel, do not look for information about disasters that occurred on a particular airline. Although the temptation can be strong, it is more useful to understand the processes that await you. By understanding what causes the shaking or jolting, you won't assume the worst. Please note the following:
- The feeling that the aircraft is rushing at tremendous speed is associated with its acceleration for takeoff.
- Do you see through the window that part of the wing is moving? This is normal during a flight and there is no reason to panic.
- Due to turbulence, it may seem that the airliner is falling into a bottomless pit. The sensation occurs when the vessel enters an area with a different pressure. In fact, the difference in height is several centimeters. The feeling of falling is due to the fact that the human vestibular apparatus is not “designed” for flight, and therefore gives false information. Speed also intensifies the problem: all movements are felt more strongly.
- Worried about an airplane door accidentally opening? This is impossible due to the difference in pressure outside and in the cabin.
The more you know about the design of modern airliners, the easier it is to remain calm when encountering turbulence. The chance of crashing is 1 in 11,000,000, so you'll be safe.
Flying First Class: Soothing Comfort
Ali Vanderman shares his experience in the fight against aerophobia. This freelance travel writer makes a living writing travel guides and stories about her adventures. But Ali was afraid of flying until she discovered the possibilities of 1st class.
According to her, Vanderman had to survive 15 hours in the air. So she decided to spend money and ensure her comfort. As a result, for 9 hours she slept peacefully in a chair under a soft blanket, and the rest of the time she enjoyed the menu and drinks.
If premium comfort is not affordable, buy a business class ticket. The distance between the rows will be greater, which will help overcome claustrophobia. Physical comfort largely provides mental comfort!
Reading Statistics Before Flight
Check out the statistics: They show that the risk of dying in a car accident is higher than being a victim in a car accident. According to research from Harvard University, the chance of being struck by lightning is 1 in 13,000. The risk is much higher than the risk of a plane crash (1 in 11,000,000), but you are not afraid to walk down the street. Accidents do happen, but the illusion of their frequency is created by media hype.
According to statistics, from 1982 to 2010 in the United States, no more than 110 people per year became victims of plane crashes. And security increases: in the 60s. accidents occurred once every 200,000 flights. Now the ratio is 1:2,000,000, so there is no reason to worry.
Keep in mind that not every problem is fatal. Even if the plane were to be that one out of 2,000,000, studies by the National Transportation Safety Board in the United States show a 95% chance of survival. In other countries the situation is no different.
So that you don’t think about how not to be afraid and fly calmly on an airplane, watch a video about checking air transport before a flight:
Preparing in advance: what to consider
If you feel uncomfortable at the thought of flying, reduce the number of stressful situations. Arriving at the airport for check-in with a minimum amount of time is not best idea, because you will get excited even before landing.
Then, if possible, go to the lounge: it is available to first class passengers and holders bank cards a certain type. But for a fee, everyone will receive additional comfort (subject to availability). The pleasure will cost 40 €, but you will find yourself in a pleasant and calm environment, enjoy food and drinks, and take a shower if you wish. If the journey is enjoyable from the first minutes, you will feel more confident on board.
Register online to avoid additional stress.
Trust the crew: get to know the staff
Pilots often greet passengers personally to reduce their anxiety. Some companies allow travelers to enter the cockpit before takeoff and greet security officials. When you see friendly, calm people, your confidence in their competence will increase. Remind yourself that the crew also wants to return home, where their loved ones are waiting.
If you can’t see the pilots, talk to the flight attendants: ask any questions you have, ask them to give you more attention. But you don't have to worry about the competence of the staff. To get hired by major airlines, pilots must spend at least 1,500 hours in the air, so they have plenty of experience.
Choosing the right clothes
- Start with comfortable underwear made from natural fabrics: women will pay attention to bras, because the straps should not cut into the shoulders.
- Choose loose trousers in black or dark blue, because they will delight you with practicality. A model without a belt will come in handy: it can put pressure on your stomach, causing discomfort.
- Do not wear high heels. Flat sole paired with socks made of natural material will not cause discomfort.
Also pack an eye mask to ensure you get a good night's sleep during your flight, and you'll be ready to travel.
Useful mobile apps and in-flight entertainment
Are you trying to overcome fear? It's easier to deal with if you're distracted. Watch the movie that is shown during the flight: even if it is bad or you have already seen the tape, it is better than remembering the stories of the crashes. Bring a book or a tabloid newspaper on board to redirect your attention.
Technology fans will appreciate it mobile application SkyGuru, designed for the iOS operating system. It works for regular flights, telling the user what is happening at every moment of the flight. You will get an explanation for all the sounds and sensations: you will no longer have to guess what the mysterious shaking of the ship means.
Do you want to completely switch your attention? Use the Ana Takeoff Mode app: the puzzle will not give you the opportunity to think about anything else. It was developed by a Japanese airline specifically for aerophobes. The creators paid special attention to the soundtrack, and the soothing melody promotes relaxation. The volume automatically increases when the engines switch to takeoff mode, so you won't be disturbed by unfamiliar sounds.
If your child shows fear, bring your favorite toys and coloring books to the salon. Keep your baby busy fun game, and most importantly, behave calmly. Seeing the confidence of the parents, the child will stop being nervous.
Maintaining Fluid Balance
Is there a noise in your head, your legs feel weak, does your stomach bother you? Phenomena caused by severe loss of moisture during flight do not add peace of mind. To prevent physical discomfort from increasing psychological discomfort, drink tomato juice. It is rich in potassium and magnesium, which improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system.
Do not overdose on alcohol: its absorption increases at altitude, and the result will be unpredictable.
Prepare for turbulence
When wondering how to overcome your fear of flying, consider when it hits you . Anxiety increases when you enter a turbulence zone, but simple tricks will come to the rescue:
- Take a piece of paper and a pen. Write your name using left hand(for left-handers - right). Repeat until you calm down. The effect is based on the fact that you focus on the task and stop thinking about the bad. You also use the other hemisphere of the brain, which breaks existing patterns. The trick was invented by Ron Nielsen, an English pilot: the effectiveness of the technique was appreciated by aerophobes.
- When you feel a panic attack coming on, take a straw out of your glass and breathe through it. You will reduce the amount of air entering your lungs and avoid hyperventilation.
- Reserve seats in the part of the plane that is closest to the cabin or center. The shocks and shaking will be felt less strongly than in the seats at the rear of the plane.
Remind yourself that turbulence is safe: no more than 50 people have been injured by it in the history of civil aviation. Troubles were caused by passengers not remaining seated or luggage falling on their heads.
Turbulence causes inconvenience, but the ship cannot crash to the ground, falling into an air pocket.
Professional help
Despite your best efforts, does air travel seem like a nightmare? See a psychologist, but don't expect to get rid of your fears after a one-time visit. Prepare to take a course of conversations, and, if necessary, work out on a virtual simulator. It simulates flight conditions, so you get used to the sensations.
How to sleep on board an airplane
It will be easier to survive the flight if you fall asleep. But how to do this on board the airliner? Hints will help you:
- Take care of your own comfort: make a playlist with soothing music, put your favorite blanket in your hand luggage, put on a soft sweater, even if it’s out of fashion. It is difficult to fall asleep in the company of 200 people, being at an altitude of several thousand meters above the ground. To achieve your goal, you need to create convenience.
- Do not cross your legs: if the flight takes more than 4 hours, the position increases the likelihood of blood clot formation. Ideally, you should book a seat near the window, because you can lean to the side and lean against the cabin wall. The position will be comfortable, even if the seat back does not recline all the way.
Avoid the idea of using alcohol to help you fall asleep. The result is unpredictable, and after waking up you will feel thirsty and have a headache. Discomfort will increase, and the impression of the flight will be negative.
Medicines for aerophobia
Are you hoping to put your fears to rest by taking a pill? Alas, effective means there is no such thing as aerophobia. You can relieve the symptoms, but in the subconscious there will be memories that flying is a frightening situation. I even had to take pills!
Manifestations of anxiety will increase, and the dose of medication will need to be increased. To solve the problem, you need to get rid of the phobia. Deal with the reasons for your fear, contacting a professional if necessary. He may prescribe medications to relieve anxiety, but they will only serve as an addition to therapy.
You cannot prescribe medications on your own, even if we are talking about a simple sleeping pill. After all, the consequences of use make themselves felt within a few hours. A foggy head and drowsiness are not the best companions for travelers.
How to choose the right flight and buy a ticket
On forums, travelers share tips on how to choose a flight and seats to reduce discomfort. Recommendations include the following:
- Traveling on direct flights is more enjoyable because you spend less time in the air.
- Seats in the center of the cabin are suitable for those who are afraid of flying. In this part the plane is stable, so there will be less vibration. But keep in mind that most models have engines located under the wings. Sitting nearby, you will hear all the noise.
- If you suffer from a fear of closed spaces and crowds, choose seats near escape hatches. The aisles in front of these rows are wider and you will not feel any discomfort.
- The phobia often recedes during daylight flights, when you see outside the window beautiful landscape. Darkness is associated with the unknown, which increases anxiety.
Decide in advance on your flight time and book your seats: by thinking through the details, you will have a good experience.
How to deal with rising anxiety
How to get rid of the fear of flying on an airplane if you feel like you're losing control? Take action in advance: warn the flight attendant and your neighbors about the problem. You need to receive support and sympathy, and not suffer alone. Many passengers are happy to entertain those who are afraid of flying with conversation.
When air transport encounters turbulence, be aware of potholes in the road. Instead of straining, relax your muscles and you will endure unpleasant moments more easily.
If panic persists, move on to controlled breathing techniques. Inhale through your nose and exhale while counting to 10. This will prevent hyperventilation, and focusing on the cycle will distract you from worries. Using a thin elastic band around your wrist also helps. Pull it back and let it go: slight pain will prevent you from coming up with scary scenarios.
What actions to avoid if you are afraid of flying
To ensure your review of airline travel is favorable, eliminate factors that increase anxiety. Consider the following tips:
- Avoid drinking coffee and caffeinated products. Your nerves are stimulated and no additional stimulation is required.
- When looking for information about an aircraft model, don't focus on crash data.
- Don't think that learning to switch thoughts - difficult task. It is possible to neutralize irrational fears when you have the facts. If you are afraid of turbulence, study the issue thoroughly. After all, most of the fears are due to simple ignorance! The next time you feel anxious, list the facts in your mind that it is safe to fly.
- Train yourself to ignore the media hype surrounding small problems. For example, at the end of January 2018, an incident occurred in Russia: after the landing of the aircraft, passengers were preparing to leave the cabin when one of them caught fire. charger for phone. The problem was fixed within minutes, but the media burst with headlines: “Plane almost caught fire due to gadget.” Why? Journalists want to attract an audience, and this cannot be done by stories about how the crew reacted harmoniously to an ordinary incident.
Remember that ignorance is main enemy. The more you know about airplanes, the more comfortable you will be when flying. If necessary, you will even go to the airfield and take a few flying lessons: once you understand what is happening, you will stop worrying.
An airplane is the safest transport: a few facts
How to overcome the fear of flying on an airplane? Remind yourself of the results of statistical research. The US Department of Transportation has provided data according to which the greatest danger is the car. If you're traveling on a highway, your risk of dying in a crash is 1 in 654, and for motorcyclists it's 1 in 114.
Why are people afraid of flying? Mainly due to the media hype associated with the disasters. Each event is covered in such detail that it seems as if accidents occur frequently. Remind yourself of this, and the fear will subside.
People with overactive imaginations will make it play into their hands. If you tend to come up with scenarios for how things might turn out, switch to the positive. Imagine your ideal trip: start by arriving at the airport, imagining getting on board, meeting your nice neighbors and arriving safely. The more often you imagine your upcoming flight in a positive light, the easier it will be to cope with the task.
Do not avoid traveling by air, otherwise suspiciousness will play out and cover other areas of life. Overcome fear and take control of the situation!
Conclusion
Research by a Japanese airline showed that 72% of passengers suffer from fear of flying. In some cases, we are talking about a phobia, and it can only be overcome with the help of therapy. But you can deal with suspiciousness on your own: try the advice in practice and choose those that help you.
Find cheap plane tickets without leaving your home:
According to statistics, 20-30% of adults suffer from aerophobia (fear of airplanes), and this despite the fact that this type transport is the safest on earth. I will not go into detail about the reasons why people are afraid to fly, what feelings they experience and how they react to the slightest change in engine noise or whispers from the flight staff. Advice in the style: “Try not to think about bad things”, “Try to relax”, “Don’t watch disaster films”, etc. don’t work, I know that!
When a wave of panic hits, it is very difficult to pull yourself together before the airliner lands. But the good news is that it is still possible to overcome your fear of flying. I, as a person who is part of the squad of cowards (emphasis on U), will tell you about effective ways that help overcome fear.
7 ways to overcome your fear of flying
The first and most effective remedy for me is alcohol. Moreover, I discovered this panacea for myself quite recently. I had never drank alcohol before/during a flight before, but when we flew to India with Emirates airlines, passengers were offered free alcohol on board. Two bottles of 50 ml. awakened the fearless traveler in me. The fear of flying disappeared, I looked with interest out the porthole window, or read a book without the obsessive thought that we were all going to die.
It is enough to drink just a little to overcome the feeling of panic; there is no need to get completely drunk. Moreover, many airlines do not allow passengers under the influence of alcohol to board their flights. Many people say that drinking alcohol during a flight is harmful, that alcohol dilates blood vessels and further increases the feeling of fear. Perhaps this is so, I am in no way agitating anyone, but only sharing those methods that help me personally.
I always take sedatives with me. Why advice on how not to be afraid to fly on an airplane if you can take a miracle pill?! As a rule, Novopassit saves me. In addition, it has a sedative effect and, perhaps, you will be able to sleep. But it’s worth remembering that if you drank alcohol, you can’t take pills. You need to choose one thing!
Give preference to reliable airlines. The very thought that you are flying with an airline that minimum quantity accidents and good service on board, increases confidence in the carrier and reduces stress. The ranking of the safest airlines in the world can be found here. Also ask for a seat at the front of the plane or at least in the middle. In the tail section the turbulence is felt much more strongly. Many airlines have the opportunity to choose your seats when booking tickets, so don’t neglect this chance.
Do not drink coffee or strong tea before/during the flight. Caffeine increases your heart rate and increases your sense of panic. I didn’t know about this before, and I always drank coffee at the airport while waiting to board.
Read a little about airplanes: how such a huge “bird” can soar in the air, why turbulence happens and what are the most common causes of plane crashes. Understanding what is happening will give you a little confidence, and you will stop stressing yourself out once again. How will this help overcome the fear of flying? Think about how many airliners fly around the world every day and what is the chance that you will get into a plane crash?! To be more confident, I go to this site and see how many planes are in the sky at the moment.
Before landing, I do breathing practices. They allow me to relax and take my mind off things a little. bad thoughts, including fear of flying. Find some video tutorials at home (for example, on YouTube), try them out and choose the one that relaxes you the most. Go through the practices several times, remember, and repeat at the airport.
Prepare for your flight and take things with you that can distract you. I always take a book with me, download my favorite music and games to my phone that can keep me busy. When we were flying to
Nowadays it is difficult to imagine traveling abroad without air travel. This method of travel allows you to save a lot of time and get to your destination with maximum comfort. And in terms of cost, a plane ticket is often cheaper than a land trip, with numerous stops, transfers and other inconveniences. But not everyone feels safe in the air, and this fear makes people experience not the most pleasant moments during the flight, or even give up traveling altogether. What to do in such cases, how to overcome the fear of flying on an airplane and get rid of discomfort forever?
Phobia or simple anxiety?
Fear of flying can occur in anyone, even those who have flown more than once. This is facilitated by many various factors: weather conditions, lack of knowledge about the operation of the aircraft, emotional distress, inactivity in flight, heart disease or nervous system. The sensations that the fear of flying causes also have varying degrees of severity. For some it is mild anxiety, for others it is anxious thoughts, nervous tension and a depressing feeling until the end of the flight, while others feel real panic to the point of loss of control over themselves.
According to statistics, about 25% of the world's population suffers from fear of flying, or aerophobia. But any manifestation of fear should not be considered a disease: a phobia has very specific signs that differ from the usual anxiety and excitement that most air passengers tend to experience. If a person is able to control negative thoughts and emotions, does not allow himself to panic and can be distracted at least a little by something, then this is not a disease. The discomfort that many people experience on an airplane is quite common, and it’s not that difficult to deal with.
It’s another matter if the fear of flying is so strong that a person can hardly force himself to board the plane, and in the air he feels panic and loses the ability to self-control. Typically, such people avoid air travel by any means and choose to travel by car or train. And yet, it is possible to overcome aerophobia, the main thing is to have the desire and a little patience.
Read also useful information With detailed instructions, V new article on our portal.
Video - Aerophobia - how to stop being afraid of flying an airplane
How to deal with fear
To effectively deal with a problem, you first need to find out what exactly scares you the most. Many are afraid of the plane breaking down in the air, engine failure, and even air pockets, due to which periodic shakes and vibrations are felt in the cabin. In fact, breakdowns are very rare, because each aircraft undergoes regular checks before flights. They are serviced by experienced specialists, so the risk of breakdown is minimal.
Another common reason for fear is the fear of entrusting your life to pilots, even the most experienced ones. The inability to control the situation in the event of an accident or at least somehow influence its outcome makes many passengers nervous and worried. But here, too, the danger is exaggerated, because both the crew and dispatchers know their job very well and take their work responsibly.
In general, it is not for nothing that airplanes are considered one of the safest modes of transport. According to long-term statistics, out of 8 million people who travel by air, only one passenger dies. At the same time, in Moscow alone car accidents About 30 thousand people die every year. Many accidents occur in railway and maritime transport.
So, first you need to determine the cause of fear, and then try to analyze it. It is important to remember that air carriers are responsible for passengers, and the crew themselves value their lives, which means they are most interested in a safe flight. If the fear is very strong, it would be best to consult a psychologist: now in Russia it is not difficult to find a qualified specialist who provides services of this kind. In just a few sessions, professional psychologists help people learn to control their emotions and overcome fears, up to the point of completely getting rid of a phobia.
Most effective method are computer virtual flight programs. Thanks to the use of special equipment, a person can try to feel like an airline pilot and control takeoffs and landings. All sensations are very realistic, and at first fear may reappear, but gradually the brain gets used to the fact that all this is just an illusion and there is not the slightest danger to life. This contributes to the development of the reflex, and the flight will already be associated with pleasant emotions, and not with panic.
The big disadvantage of such therapy is its high cost, which not everyone can afford. If your fear of flying is not so strong that it causes you to lose self-control, you can cope with the problem in a less expensive way, using a few simple techniques.
Safe seats on the plane:
| Safe places | Location | Survival percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Front section of the cabin |  | 48% for survival |
| Economy class in front of the wing |  | 56% for survival |
| Economy class above the wing |  | 56% for survival |
| Tail section of the cabin |  | 69% for survival |
Methods to combat fear of flying
Exists a whole series various techniques that can reduce nervous tension and make it easier to endure an airplane flight. These methods may differ in effectiveness, and what works well for some may not work for others, so everyone must choose the best option for themselves.
| A way to deal with fear | Description |
|---|---|
| If you focus only on pleasant moments, for example, the anticipation of a foreign vacation or meeting with family (friends), the power of fear will significantly weaken. You need to start before the trip begins: set yourself up for the positive, put your thoughts in order, and constantly repeat that the flight will go well. On the plane, mentally imagine yourself already at the final point of the flight, make plans for the coming days. |
| Many people meet fellow passengers on a flight and spend most of their time interacting with them. Interesting conversation It will help you take your mind off negative thoughts and experiences, and time will fly by faster. But even if you don’t really like your interlocutor, it’s still better to keep the conversation going than to dwell on your fears. |
| If you don’t like to communicate on the road, take a book with you. How more interesting plot, the less you will pay attention to what is happening around you. You can also use a tablet or laptop and browse the Internet, because now every plane has Wi-Fi on board. |
| Another great way to distract yourself is to listen to your favorite music while flying. Of course, this should only be done with headphones, so as not to disturb others. It is advisable to turn the music up louder - this way you will drown out the noise and hum in the cabin, which can cause unpleasant associations. |
| If you believe in the power of amulets, talismans, lucky numbers, then be sure to take some item with you on the road for good luck. Some people specifically reserve seats in the cabin under a certain number or order tickets for the same date. This allows you to psychologically tune in to a safe flight and reduce emotional stress. |
| Sweet foods have a calming effect on nervous system, so it’s worth taking with you what you like best, for example, chocolate, candy, candied fruit. You need to eat them little by little, stretching out the pleasure and enjoying the taste. |
| If you are very nervous, you can take a sedative before the flight, but not exceeding the permissible dose. In the case of a long flight, a light sleeping pill will do; the main thing is not to overdo it and not mix sleeping pills with a sedative. |
Psychologists recommend that people with a fear of flying arrive early to avoid worries associated with check-in and boarding. By arriving early, you can calmly go through all the procedures and prepare yourself psychologically for the flight, and at the same time get to know other passengers.
Video - 10 techniques on how to overcome fear of flying
What not to do
A large number of those who are afraid of flying on airplanes themselves aggravate their condition by taking certain actions. To avoid this, you need to know in advance what you shouldn’t do while flying:
Read also detailed and interesting information for travelers, in a new article -
Video - How to overcome the fear of flying on an airplane
About how not to be afraid to fly on an airplane, many citizens around the world have to think about. In fact, how else can you get to or admire the beautiful natural architecture of the city? The bad thing is that the fear of flying is unpredictable, it can overtake you suddenly, it can even be provoked by the smiling face of a flight attendant, warmly inviting you into the cabin on the last step of the stairs. But it can be dealt with.
Serious aerophobia or temporary fear?
Can't you imagine what to do if you are afraid to fly on an airplane? First of all, it’s worth figuring out whether this is a temporary mental disorder or a stable one, more like a disease called aerophobia. If this is a feeling that has arisen from nowhere, completely unfamiliar to you before, then you can try to laugh it off or philosophize. In case of persistent fear of flying on an airplane, which is even accompanied by somatic disorders (fainting), you should consult a psychologist.
It is a specialist psychologist (not to be confused with a psychiatrist) who can help in stop being afraid of flying on a plane. Flight personnel – pilots and flight attendants – are often invited to such psychological training to combat aerophobia. Firstly, you will see with your own eyes that in front of you ordinary people flesh and blood, not cyborgs. Secondly, you will hear about what is really worth doing to overcome aerophobia, and what cannot be done under any circumstances.
What if you purchased a ticket and, for example, a couple of weeks before the flight you began to develop anxiety attacks that you are unable to fight? In this case, you need to approach the issue competently. But, as practice shows, overcoming aerophobia is not difficult!
The most dangerous places on an airplane (Infographic: www.aif.ru)
What not to do before a flight
From all the recipes how to deal with aerophobia, The proposal to get completely drunk before flying on an airplane is the most harmful. This doesn’t solve the problem, and if it does, it doesn’t solve it for long. You cannot predict how your body will react to alcohol doping during a flight. It is possible that in conditions of low pressure (when the plane occupies the required flight level, it decreases somewhat in the cabin), the oxidation of oxygen contained in the blood will proceed uncontrollably quickly in the presence of alcohol (by the way, maybe someone will be interested in reading about it). This will lead to the fact that a person who has fallen asleep calmly on the takeoff of an airplane will begin to experience euphoria, and even worse - panic. Do you know why many people are afraid to fly on an airplane? But because of such subjects who suddenly emerged from nirvana. In addition, it is absolutely known that hangover syndrome that occurs in flight is the most difficult to tolerate. There are even cases of heart attacks in apparently healthy people.
And one more recipe for combating aerophobia: you can’t “wind up” yourself. If you are about to fly, then do everything so as not to read a single line about the model of aircraft on which you will fly. Do not communicate on forums and do not collect statistics on plane crashes. It has already been collected and this data is much more objective. According to them, air transport is the most reliable. Whatever they say about possible violations, deviations from the rules and other unpleasant things, aviation has been and remains the most regulated industry. As a rule, the minibuses on which you ride every day are much less well controlled. And falling from your own height is considered by medicine to be just as risky as falling from 10 thousand meters.
Stereotypes that scare us
Doubts about Should you be afraid of flying on airplanes?, are often reinforced by common stereotypes, only exacerbating aerophobia in people. Some of the most harmful ones are based on anti-patriotism. For some reason, on earth we enthusiastically chant “Russia!” and we consider ourselves the best in the world. But as soon as we touch on aviation in a conversation, wonderful transformations and horror stories immediately begin about airliners falling apart in flight, flight attendants and pilots drinking.
In fact, Russian aviation is firmly integrated into the global transport network and is subject to all international regulations. And the largest domestic airline "Aeroflot" unlike other post-Soviet aircraft, it has relatively new aircraft, distinguished by good technical maintenance. The only thing I would like to advise is to avoid flying on the most dangerous and unreliable planes, which, according to statistics, crash most often - this is Boeing 737, Boeing 747, Tu-154, An-24, Yak-40 and some others, and Boeing 777, IL-86, Airbus A340 are considered the safest airliners.
Would, for example, they allow the takeoff of a technically faulty airliner with an inadequate crew? Such a board is dangerous for everyone on the ground, and no one will risk themselves for the sake of unknown commercial interests. Even the pilots themselves, due to the typical selfishness of humans, will not lift a faulty plane into the air due to the threat to their own lives.
Another block of stereotypes is associated with the behavior of an airplane during flight. No one really bothers about being shaken on bad roads. This is perceived as an inevitable disaster inherent in our country.
There are also some potholes on airways called turbulence (by the way, they are most afraid of it). And such a phrase as “air holes” terrifies many. But this is nothing more than catchphrase. There is a certain fluctuation in the air environment, very limited, and once in the zone of action of which the wings of the aircraft lose part of the lifting force. Let’s not lie, a tangible “failure” is very pleasant for the body. But a mentally healthy person can withstand more. Moreover, at the end of the flight to Thailand, the very same paradise that you have been dreaming about awaits you. last year, and maybe all my life. So, let’s not let aerophobia take over, search and book and fly with peace of mind!
Instructions
Gather information about airplanes and air travel. Fears often arise due to lack of awareness on this issue, as a result of which any shock can cause a panic attack. By getting your information from airline websites rather than disaster movies, you'll know that not everything that happens in the air is due solely to engine failure.
Visit the airport and watch the planes land safely on the runway. Psychologists advise visually reinforcing positive images, in in this case image of a successfully completed flight. Consider the passengers getting off and those who greet them with flowers or hugs. In the future, reproduce what you saw in your memory.
Attend special training for sufferers. A common method of dealing with fear is the method of immersion in virtual reality. Using a computer program and a special helmet, the flight situation is recreated in every detail with different positions: pilot and passenger. It is much easier to overcome the fear caused by virtual reality, since the program will gradually accustom you to air travel. The immunity that the psyche develops during such exercises will help cope with panic on board a real plane.
Do relaxation exercises. While at the airport or in the passenger seat, normalize your breathing and try to relax. Take a deep breath through your nose and then exhale slowly, mentally counting to three. In this case, you can raise and lower your shoulders with maximum amplitude. By reducing muscle tension in the neck, you will feel that anxiety also subsides.
Find something to do during your flight. To distract yourself from unnecessary thoughts, listen to music, read or watch movies. The laptop is a real salvation for everyone who suffers from aerophobia. The only downside is that it cannot be used during landings and flights.
Video on the topic
Please note
Don't drown out your phobia with alcohol. Among others side effects, it can increase fears.
Fear of airplanes is the most common phobia in the world. However, in most cases, this is not a disease, but simply suspiciousness that can be overcome. If flying is always stressful for you and just the thought of it makes you shiver, use simple tips.
Instructions
Choose large airlines, preferably those that have a canine service. Before takeoff, sniffer dogs check the plane and passengers for drugs, weapons and explosives. You can't fool such dogs.
Try to dress in loose clothes, which does not hinder movements. Stock up on lollipops in case your ears get clogged.
Try to arrive at the airport early. Spend 30-45 minutes at the window watching planes land and take off - nothing dangerous happens to them. You won't feel alone in the hustle and bustle of the airport: millions of people fly every day, and for some it's a daily job. Of course, the less often a person flies on airplanes, the more afraid he is of it.