Aerophobia treatment. Symptoms of fear of flying. Coping with poor health

According to available statistics, the fear of flying on airplanes is inherent in more than half of all air passengers. Of course, such fear manifests itself in varying degrees, but the very fact that every second passenger experiences fears about flying made me start searching for information on how to overcome aerophobia - the fear of flying on airplanes - and get pleasure from it, not stress. Let me note right away that I myself am not afraid of flying, but I still feel a slight nervousness during every takeoff and every landing, although the tips below really help get rid of most phobias.

As a rule, the fear of flying arises and increases immediately after a person learns about a plane crash from a news report or by reading about what happened on the Internet. And despite the fact that airplanes are the fastest and most convenient transport for covering medium and long distances, people are beginning to think that it might be better to go by train or even abandon a previously planned trip, because air transport is the main way to deliver tourists to popular resorts. Below are the basic recommendations that will help you get rid of most phobias about airplanes and allow you to relax during the flight without thinking about bad things. After all, it’s always pleasant, but the air flight itself should also be a pleasure.

Remember the flight statistics

One of the most effective ways to get rid of the fear of flying on airplanes. You can have different attitudes to statistics, but in this case it is very eloquent and indicates that airplanes have remained the safest mode of transport for many years. Just think about the numbers: every day the number of air passengers exceeds 3 million people, and this number is constantly growing. But the probability of getting into a plane crash is estimated as one chance in 500,000. If we compare it with road transport, which everyone actively uses and doesn’t really think about the dangers, then the probability of dying in a car accident is 30 times higher than when flying.

Trust the professionals

Again, a comparison with vehicles. Remember, are you afraid to drive a car when another person is driving? I think not really, unless it’s a person who received it a couple of days ago and is starting to get dangerously reckless. But in most cases, the cars are driven by amateurs, not professionals. So why is there a fear of flying on airplanes if experienced professionals who have undergone many years of theoretical and practical training are always at the controls of passenger airliners, which allows them to be prepared for various kinds of accidents and unforeseen circumstances? In addition, modern airliners are equipped with intelligent electronic systems that, in some way, control the actions of pilots and minimize the possibility of “human error.”

Talk to your neighbors on the plane

If there is a fear of flying on airplanes, it is worth admitting it. Share your fears with people close to you who are flying with you, or just with your seat neighbors on the plane. All psychologists claim that “letting out” fear will allow you to feel much freer and give you confidence in the successful outcome of the flight. In addition, people around you can give you some useful tips on how to more effectively get rid of your fear of flying. And perhaps you will feel a little calmer if you find out that other passengers also have some fear.

Learn how an airplane works

Often, the fear of flying on airplanes arises when a person first finds himself next to this type of transport or takes a seat in a passenger airliner and notices how huge it is. At this moment, the thought may arise: “How will this multi-ton metal giant rise into the air and fly?” I advise you to read on the Internet or talk to a person who can clearly explain to you the principles of aerodynamics, tell you in an accessible language about how the mechanism for lifting an airplane into the air is carried out, how the wings hold the airplane during flight, etc. It is possible that knowing these details will significantly reduce your fears.

Air pockets and areas of turbulence are common

Take it for granted that possible exposure to air pockets and turbulence zones during the flight is not considered something out of the ordinary. You don't panic when the car shakes on uneven roads or the vehicle sways slightly when overcoming an obstacle. There is also no need to worry about this in advance, because it is quite possible that during the flight you will not encounter any of these phenomena.

Choose your seats on the plane in advance

Don’t forget that today you can choose in advance the seat on the plane where the flight will be most comfortable for you. For example, if you are afraid of motion sickness, then choose seats in the front part of the aircraft cabin, and if your fear of flying on airplanes is complemented by your fear of heights, do not take a seat near the window. You can read more about the advantages and disadvantages of certain seats in the airliner cabin on the page.

Arrive at the airport on time

To the best of your ability, arrive at the airport in time for passenger check-in for your flight. The time allocated for this process depends on the specific airport (its size, number of flights, country and city), but is usually 3 hours. You should not delay check-in, as there is a possibility of missing your flight. Arriving at the airport in advance risks the fact that you will have too much free time for thoughts about what might happen during the flight to enter your head.

Alcohol and coffee are not the best in-flight drinks

Despite the widespread belief that drinking alcohol can more effectively overcome the fear of flying, this is far from the case. Due to the limited volume of air in the aircraft cabin, drinking alcohol, coffee and other tonic drinks can lead to a deterioration in the general condition of the body: due to dehydration of the body, dry mouth may occur, dizziness, and mild nausea. Therefore, during the flight, to quench your thirst, it is better to opt for regular juices, soft drinks and plain drinking water.

Find something fun to do while you're flying

Most modern airliners that carry passengers over long distances are equipped with individual screens built into the headrests of the seats in front of the passengers. These screens are connected to the aircraft’s multimedia system and allow you to find many interesting activities during the flight: you can choose from an extensive list and watch a movie, listen to music from the music library, play electronic games, simply watch the flight map, get acquainted with information about the aircraft’s speed, altitude flight, temperature in the cabin and outside, expected time of arrival at the destination airport, etc.

If you have chosen a charter flight that allows (or any other country), there may not be individual screens, so I recommend downloading an interesting book or movie to your phone or tablet in advance, or buying a classic book or favorite magazine for the trip. Many people do crossword puzzles or scanword puzzles during the flight, listen to the player, knit socks, etc. The main thing is that the chosen activity is really interesting for you and distracts you from bad thoughts, helping to effectively get rid of the fear of flying on airplanes and allowing the flight time to fly by more unnoticed. I wish you pleasant flights and always soft landings!

P.S. Are you afraid of flying on airplanes and what helps you overcome your fear of flying? You can tell us in the comments, your personal experience may be useful to many tourists!

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I am afraid of flying on an airplane, how can I overcome my fear of flying on an airplane?
Some are afraid of rats, some go crazy in the elevator and in confined spaces in general, some are afraid to swim...

These are human phobias - an increased reaction, neurosis due to some situation in which a person does not want to get into with all his might and means.

– I'm afraid to fly. I have aerophobia.

We’ve seen in films how it’s customary to get acquainted when joining the Alcoholics Anonymous Society: a person realizes and admits his addiction to firewater. So now I will try to sort out this aerophobia and throw it in the trash with you.

Time that has nothing to occupy

A short digression: I started flying airplanes when I was an adult.
And he immediately began to fly a lot: throughout the USSR, and later abroad. And I didn’t feel any fears.

The turbulence at altitude was amusing; the seat belt was dangling unfastened throughout the flight.

In those days you could still smoke on airplanes. The flight time flew by unnoticed, walking around the cabin between feedings and meeting new people. In the back of the IL-86 that carried shuttles to the UAE there was a downward slope, for some reason there was a wheel lying there on which there were cups with cigarette butts and empty bottles of whiskey rolling on the floor - it was a fun time.

Then smoking was banned on board airplanes. First on flights of Western airlines, and then Aeroflot gave up.
I would like to note that there was no such feature as a screen with films and a choice of music on airplanes back then.

And when smoking was banned throughout the flight, I had free time. And in your free time, when you are being driven and nothing depends on you and there is nothing to do, willy-nilly, you begin to listen to sounds, vibrations and generally begin to control the process of movement - and this is the beginning of fears.

Moreover, my fear was selective: I was afraid of take-off, then of turbulence during the flight at flight level, and as soon as the plane began to descend, the fear disappeared.

I explain this with a bearded anecdote about Vasily Ivanovich and Petka during a long parachute buckle: “... V.I.! There are 2 meters left to the ground! Pull the ring! What are you doing, Petka! Didn’t you jump from a Russian stove?”

The main reason for the fear of flying: a lot of free time when being in a confined space and, as a result, boredom and doing nothing.

At this time, being deprived of free communication with people; the realization that a plane is not a bus and you cannot ask the driver to stop to warm up; and during night flights over the ocean, the inability to check the usual ground-to-sky coordinate system through the window is all cause for concern.

Medicines for aerophobia

Now that the reasons for my fear of flying have been found, all that remains is to find a cure for aerophobia.
This medicine may be:

– an interlocutor (who also doesn’t sleep at night) and this is the best option
- an interesting book that is difficult to put down
– a film with a twisted plot that makes you empathize with the characters and thus turns off the nasty control device in your head
– quite loud music that drowns out this device and sleep overcomes it
– some neutral activity that allows you to pass the time in an uncomfortable seat: feeding on board, delivering drinks, processing photos on a laptop
– going to the toilet or getting water can also take up time during the flight
– WiFi Internet on board – allows you to work, create and forget about everything

How to sleep on board an airplane

The second remedy for in-flight anxiety is sleep.
If I can’t sleep, then I tire my autopilot with music and the more rhythmic and louder it is, the faster sleep will come.
Rhythmic and deep breathing with pauses can help. How they teach in yoga.

You can try sedatives, which are now sold in pharmacies - they are marketed specifically for sleeping on an airplane.
I haven't tried it myself, I don't know.
But at the Vinsky Forum you can.

Some people rely on alcohol, but I don't want to recommend the "get yourself drunk and fall asleep" method -

– This threatens those who fly a lot or sit a lot due to their occupation – thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities... .

Knowledge of how an airplane works

Another pill for the fear of flying is knowledge of the basics of aerodynamics and design features of the aircraft.

Airplanes were born to fly. For a plane to forget how to fly, you have to try very, very hard.

Well, then - what are they afraid of! You voluntarily entered it, entrusting your safety to the pilots and with your fear you will not help them hold the helm.

Modern airplanes are automated so that they can land themselves.
And the fact that sometimes during a flight an airplane flaps its wings—that’s why birds flap their wings, and that’s why they fly.

Feel the flight yourself

The last option: find the flying club closest to your home and (preferably a jet club) while the pilot is performing aerobatics.

After this, you will definitely no longer be afraid of flying on passenger planes, which, after taking a stool, will seem like silent limousines to you.

You will feel that the structural strength of the aircraft exceeds the strength of your spine, and the turbulence on board a passenger plane is just baby talk.

Fly in business class

For long distances it is better to fly first or business class.
There, lying with a pillow under your head and good headphones, you will have pleasant dreams.

But it costs money and those who can afford it don’t need my recommendation - so they fly.

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 seek 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 is causing 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 the best idea, because you will get nervous even before landing.

Then, if possible, go to the lounge: it is available to first class passengers and certain types of bank card holders. 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.

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 navy blue for their practicality. A model without a belt will come in handy: it can put pressure on your stomach, causing discomfort.
Do not wear high heels. A flat-soled model in combination with socks made of natural material will not cause discomfort.

Also pack an eye mask to ensure you get a restful 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 the SkyGuru mobile application designed for the iOS operating system. It works on 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 with a 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 your left hand (for left-handed people, your right hand). 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 staying in their seats 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, there are no effective remedies for 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 daytime flights, when you see a beautiful landscape outside the window. 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 is a 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 aircraft had landed, passengers were preparing to leave the cabin when one of them’s phone charger caught fire. 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 the 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.

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Once upon a time, people dreamed of flying through the sky like birds. Modern realities give us this opportunity - for a relatively small fee you can be anywhere in the world in the shortest possible time. But another problem arose that prevents us from freely cutting through the airspace - aerophobia.

The fear of flying on airplanes is not a fiction or a whim. This is a very specific disease, because of which people have to give up such a convenient and fast form of transport. Every person experiences a little anxiety before a flight. But if it goes beyond all limits, it is a disease. A person with aerophobia feels restless and anxious already on the way to the airport. His heart rate increases, his sweating increases, his speech is incoherent, and his arms and legs go numb. The face turns red and pale, the head is spinning, concentration is lost, all sounds come like an echo. Women may become hysterical, start crying and screaming. If a person has to refuse to fly out of fear, then this is a serious phobia that needs to be dealt with with the help of a qualified psychologist.

Where does the fear of flying on airplanes come from?

Fear is the body’s natural reaction to some danger. The instinct of self-preservation warns us against possible risks to life and health. But why does one person endure flights calmly, while another shakes like a leaf throughout the entire journey? Who is susceptible to aerophobia?

As scientists have established, aerophobia, like other fears, is inherited. That is, there is a certain percentage of probability that your brothers, sisters, parents and children will suffer from a fear of flying on airplanes if you yourself are afraid of flying. It has been found that identical twins suffer from the same phobias in 70% of cases.
Living conditions, upbringing and the foundation of worldview laid in childhood are also important factors in relation to various subjects. For example, if as a child your parents once dropped the phrase that an airplane is dangerous, you can fall and crash, etc., then your attitude towards this iron bird begins to form.
Existing unrest may be aggravated by the influence of the media. Often in the news they talk about a tragic plane crash, we take everything to heart, empathize and unwittingly put ourselves in the shoes of these people. We don't think there were a million other successful flights on other airliners that day, we only think about this tragic flight. And as we board the plane once again, we believe that tragedy could happen to us. Such impressionable people should not watch news about plane crashes.

If the fear of flying on airplanes is strong enough, if it does not go away for a long time, tormenting your nerves, it needs to be treated. Typically, when treating aerophobia, methods of neurolinguistic programming (NLP), medications (sedatives) and hypnotic suggestion are used. But sessions with a psychotherapist and psychologist are considered especially effective, as they will help identify the true cause of fear and, through conversation, eliminate the phobia forever. To ensure the successful outcome of the conversations, some psychological clinics have rooms that simulate the interior of an airplane, takeoff, landing, etc.

During registration, ask to be seated in a place where the porthole is not visible, because if you look out, this will increase your fears. A seat in the center of the plane will help you distance yourself from the problem. Some people calm down when they sit closer to the emergency exit - perhaps this will make you feel better.
During the flight, try to distract yourself. Read a book, watch a movie, eat. Even a simple chocolate bar can increase the level of endorphins, which will improve your psycho-emotional state.
When purchasing a ticket, pay attention to the choice of airline and find out about its reputation. If in its entire history this team has not “dropped” a single plane, that’s worth something. The thought of reliable air travel will calm you down.
If you feel afraid during a flight, try to communicate with the person sitting next to you. If you are not flying alone, that’s great. Talking to a stranger is even more interesting. Perhaps you can practice learning foreign languages?
At the moment of takeoff, many are overcome with fear due to the roar of the engine. To prevent the noise of a running engine from confusing you, use headphones. Turn on your favorite tune to avoid hearing the terrifying sound.
Try to relax in your chair. Unbutton the top button of your shirt and loosen your tie. Imagine being at home on your favorite couch after a long and hard day at work.
Another great remedy for a relaxing flight is sleeping pills. Take the right pill before your flight, and it will pass unnoticed for you. Just keep your money and documents with you.
Usually the most anxious moment in a flight is considered to be the time when you have already sat down in your seat, made yourself comfortable and are waiting for the plane to start up and take off. To speed up the anxious wait, you can look at photos, play games on your phone, tablet or laptop. If you don’t have any gadgets at hand, you can simply count. Count to a hundred, a thousand, it perfectly calms your nerves.
Bring chewing gum or candy on the plane. They will distract you from what is happening.
If you are afraid of shaking and turbulence, then you should pay attention to the choice of seat on the plane. Sit closer to the nose - in the tail, as a rule, the shaking is stronger.
To get rid of tormenting feelings, you need to do something pleasant before the flight. Meet with friends, do some shopping, devote time to your favorite hobby, play with your pet. And then you will have no time left for worries and worries - positive emotions are stronger than negative ones.
If none of the suggested remedies work, try relaxing with alcohol. After all, a small dose of alcohol can really relieve tension, relieve anxiety and fear. Just don't overdo it - it can be fraught with unpleasant consequences.
To finally get rid of aerophobia, you need to fly as much as possible. This sticks in your mind as a positive experience. You understand that nothing has happened to you, that flying is safe and very comfortable.

And one last thing. Think about what you can do if the flight doesn't go according to plan? Are you a pilot? Will you be able to change the current situation? Well, of course not. Once you board the plane, you must understand that nothing further depends on you. Therefore, you need to calmly perceive the situation - your worries are still in vain.

An airplane is a huge, multi-ton machine that can take to the skies and transport more than a hundred people over long distances. Remember that airplanes were built by outstanding scientists and engineers. During the design, assembly and construction of these colossuses, calculations were made a thousand times with a huge reserve of mass and overload. During operation, all options for the behavior of the machine are calculated. The operation of the aircraft allows this aircraft to land even if its main and spare engines fail.

But disasters happen, you say. They really do happen. However, against the backdrop of multimillion-dollar successful flights, tragedies in the sky happen extremely rarely. Out of 45 million flights, only one turns out to be tragic. By the way, many more people die in car accidents, but you are not afraid to get behind the wheel. Remember that all fears are in your head, you just need to overcome them.

Very often people are afraid of the unusual roar of the engine, some knocks and stops. They think the plane's machinery is malfunctioning and feel a rush of oncoming panic. In fact, this is absolutely normal, because the plane does not always operate continuously. Sometimes the engine “howls”, rumbles and stops. Do not pay attention to this, because there are people on board who are responsible for the operation of the aircraft, for their lives and yours. Be optimistic and calm - everything will be fine!

Video: how to stop being afraid of flying on airplanes

Every minute, at every airport on the planet, an airplane with passengers on board takes off. 70% of people sitting in the cabin experience fear of flying, which is quite natural. But not everyone is able to cope with their phobia. To understand how not to be afraid of flying on an airplane, you need to understand the reasons for this fear.

Causes of fear

Fear of flying on an airplane is a natural symptom characteristic of any person. Some people know how to drown it out and ignore it, while others, “making a mountain out of a molehill,” turn everything into a phobia. This happens for many reasons, and the roots of the problem lie in the subconscious.

Reflexive fear is transmitted to people with a gene code from ancestors who were frightened by the first “iron birds”. For this reason, a person involuntarily shrinks when an airplane flies nearby;
When an airliner takes off into the sky, the human body intuitively reacts with alertness - it has been torn out of its familiar environment. Those who are psychologically susceptible to phobias begin to get nervous and sometimes seriously panic, not always realizing the cause of their fear;
Some people are afraid to fly on a plane consciously, having watched enough thrillers about plane crashes, although the real news is not full of daily reports about plane crashes. Such alarmists prepare themselves ahead of time for the tragedy of the situation;
Usually people are afraid of flights carried out for the first time - here the fear of the unknown is frightening. There is also a category of people for whom the first flight was unsuccessful due to poor health on board. Mistaking severe motion sickness for danger, the subconscious imposed a taboo on this method of movement, and psychological perception turned it into a phobia.

Note! Whatever the reason for fear when flying, you need to figure out how much of it is a phobia (or just an uncomfortable feeling of an unusual environment).

Symptoms

Aerophobia is not the only type of fear that people suffer from. There are those who are afraid of heights and confined spaces, as well as unfamiliar company. It is these fears that can cause a panic attack. To understand how aerophobic you are, you should try on the following symptoms of the problem described:

You begin to experience fear of flying on an airplane long before the trip, and are unable to control your internal panic;
Before you board the plane, you take a sedative dose of alcohol, sedatives or antidepressants;
When an airliner takes off and lands, you unconsciously squeeze into the passenger seat, your palms sweat, and your fingers frantically dig into the armrests;
During the flight, your entire consciousness is focused on monitoring the sounds of the engines. If the view of the window allows, you do not take your eyes off the running engines;
If the plane gets into a zone of turbulence, the situation puts you in shock, and you mentally say goodbye to life;
Every action of the flight attendant makes you suspicious, and you try to understand what she is hiding behind her smile.

Note! If you have even half of these signs, you are an aerophobe, for whom flying becomes a real punishment.

How to smooth the situation

When a person submits to his fears, it develops into a serious illness. If traveling by plane is not perceived as a natural event, it can be made more relaxed. To do this, you just need to distract yourself from your phobia by switching to something else.

Knowing about the upcoming flight, you can prepare for it in advance. You shouldn’t study reports about plane crashes that have already occurred; it’s better to look at the statistics of accidents occurring on Earth. Many more people die in DPT than in the air;
To prepare yourself psychologically for the flight, it is advisable to register in advance and ask for a seat away from the windows. While the plane is loading, you calmly settle into your seat. You shouldn’t ask for space in the tail zone either – turbulence is most noticeable there;
Before a flight, it is not recommended to calm yourself down with alcohol or serious drugs - they can provoke an inadequate reaction. Coffee, which has a stimulating effect on the psyche, will not help either. It is better to always have motion sickness pills and fruit lozenges with you;
In order not to succumb to the phobia, you need to distract yourself, so you should take an interesting book or magazine with crossword puzzles on the road, download a movie with an exciting plot to your laptop or tablet, or occupy yourself with an exciting game;
Listen to pleasant, soothing music coming from your headphones, it will help drown out the sounds of the engines. You can download a relaxation music library to your player especially for the flight;
Chat with your seatmates. Talking is a good way to take your mind off your fears. Even if the same aerophobe as you is sitting next to you, mutual communication will help you cope with the problem;
If you don’t want to have small talk or distract yourself from bad thoughts with idle activities, you can just sleep. To do this, just take an inflatable pillow and a blanket (as well as earplugs and a blindfold) into the cabin. If you forgot about this option, some airlines may offer you bedding;
You don’t even have to sleep - you can just lie with your eyes closed and remember the pleasant moments of your life, think about an upcoming meeting, remember loved ones or make plans for the coming year.

Additional Information! Have you taken all the measures, but the state of panic does not go away? Then do some breathing exercises. The exercises are done like this: first, inhale deeply through your mouth, hold it in your lungs for 5 seconds, then exhale for another 4 seconds. don't breathe. Repeat the steps several times: this will help you calm down very quickly.

Professional help

If fears of flying have been present for a long time, and traveling by plane is a frequent forced reality, you cannot do without the help of a specialist. It is worth paying serious attention to your psycho-emotional state, devoting enough time to it.

Find an experienced psychologist who will help you figure out why you are afraid of flying and teach you how to deal with your phobia correctly. You can’t get rid of this with just a conversation - you’ll have to undergo a course of psychotherapy before you begin to perceive flying more naturally and stop being afraid of flying;
Part of the treatment is the use of flight stimulators, which allow you to become accustomed to flying using virtual simulators. This point is good because in grounded conditions, in a specially equipped room, a feeling of the reality of flight is created;
The doctor will help you choose medications for the upcoming trip. Here you need to take into account that the proposed pills are not a solution to the problem, but only part of the therapy, and they do not relieve the phobia on their own.

Medicines prescribed by a doctor for a flight can be divided into 2 types: cumulative and rapid-acting. The first group includes those that are accepted in several stages - immediately before departure, and then every half hour or hour. The second group of drugs has a sufficient concentration of sedative so that 1 tablet is enough for several hours of exposure.

Treatment is carried out with sedative and anti-anxiety medications that inhibit nerve impulses and relieve muscle spasms and cramps.

Important! The doctor himself decides which drug to treat an aerophobe, based on the individual characteristics of the patient, his state of mind, the causes of fear, and the severity of the problem.

You should not constantly resort to these means, since most of them can become addictive. This method of treating aerophobia should be short-term and applied to those who do not travel by plane very often.

The person himself can prepare for a future flight in advance. About 3 weeks before your upcoming trip, you can start taking glycine or valerian extract daily in the doses indicated in the instructions. This will help reduce nervous tension and avoid stressful situations.

Laws of physics

Some people are terrified of flying precisely because they are cut off from the Earth. Not everyone understands the principle of aerodynamics, so they don’t fully understand how such a heavy metal colossus with a bunch of passengers on board and a large amount of luggage can stay in the air for several hours.

If you are flying for the first time, to calm your imagination and stop being afraid, it is worth familiarizing yourself with some design features of aircraft:

Airliners are equipped with powerful engines that can not only lift a plane into the air, but also hold it for a long time among the clouds;
There is no need to be afraid that the engines will break down: the plane has at least 2 of them. If 1 motor fails for some reason, the 2nd one will take over its function. Even if both engines fail at once, the plane will be able to land carefully, like a glider;
The wings, which are quite firmly attached to the body, help the airplane stay and glide in the air. The chance that they will fall off in flight is reduced to zero;
All systems equipped with airliners have duplicate programs. As soon as a failure occurs, the backup system immediately comes into operation (and there are at least 4 of them in passenger aircraft);
You don’t have to worry about the risk of getting into a plane crash due to the pilot’s poor health - the planes have a reliable piloting system that allows you to carefully land the car according to the program built into it;
The flight of each aircraft is controlled from the ground by air traffic control services, with which the pilots are in constant contact. Pilots will be immediately notified of all unusual situations and changes in weather conditions;
The turbulence zone, which not every plane encounters, should not be scary. The aerodynamic parameters of the design are calculated taking into account this natural phenomenon, so that the aircraft has a sufficient margin of safety to withstand such shocks;
There are professionals on board who do not consider themselves kamikazes. They calmly carry out their duties, as they are confident in the reliability of the “steel bird”.

Additional Information! For an extraordinary situation to occur, fate will have to try, because each plane is carefully checked by technical services before departure. They use special diagnostic devices, so faulty equipment will not even be allowed onto the runway. Customs inspection at the terminals has been strengthened, which prevents dangerous baggage from getting on board.

Don’t be shy to admit to others: “I’m afraid to fly on an airplane.” Among your friends there will be people who have already flown several times. They know what to do to overcome their fear. Take their advice to heart.

You will also be impressed by the reviews of third-party people who have learned to subdue their fears:

Dmitriy:“I used to be afraid of flying on an airplane, although I could not understand the reasons for this. On one of my business trips I fell in love with a beautiful girl. Now I fly to her on a date every Friday. During the flight, I only think about the upcoming meeting, making plans for how we will spend our time. Now, while I’m on board, I’ve never had a feeling of anxiety or panic”;
Olga:“I am constantly overcome by some kind of fear. I am not comfortable in enclosed spaces, I am terrified of getting into a plane crash. Because of this, I lost a very profitable job - in our business, even minutes matter. Airplanes, the best option for mobility, allow you to quickly solve problems. I used the car exclusively, losing time and clients. As a result, I had to see a psychotherapist and undergo special training. Even now, I am periodically driven by unconscious emotions, but I try to control them. Realizing that phobias are a game of my subconscious, I took the risk of using the airline’s services and have already managed to make 2 flights.”

If the phobia is not treated

When it is impossible to avoid flying, and you are terrified of it, problems not only of a psychological nature begin. If you do not learn to cope with fears, the phobia completely absorbs the person, turning him into a gloomy neurasthenic.

Before an upcoming flight, a person begins to be overcome by panicky thoughts, as a result he is tormented by nightmares, or he cannot sleep at all;
Becoming irritable and sleep-deprived, the aerophobe lashes out at people close to him, causing family relationships to deteriorate;
Those who hide their fears find it even more difficult to endure flying. A phobia driven deep into oneself leads to the development of heart disease, hypertension, and heart attacks;
If the need to fly is related to professional activities, every attempt to delay the flight or replace it with another type of movement affects career growth. Psychological shocks on this occasion make the aerophobe a patient in the neurological department;
The fear of using the services of airlines impoverishes your vacation - not every resort can be quickly and easily reached by rail (let alone by car).

Important! Any type of phobia will progress quickly if you subordinate your psyche to it and refuse the help of professionals.

Hoping that he can cope on his own, a person resorts to using powerful psychotropic drugs or alcohol. The more often the need to fly arises, the faster the bad habit develops. Such doping does not make the situation easier, but makes it even worse.

Alcohol in conditions of low pressure and dry air in the aircraft cabin can cause lightheadedness (sometimes with vomiting). The body is in a suspended state, and even a small amount of alcohol at an altitude of several thousand meters from the Earth can cause severe intoxication, which results in loss of strength. This immediately worsens a drunk person’s mood, and panic sets in with even greater force.

Video

If you realize that you are subject to a phobia, you should not be embarrassed or hide it. Each person has his own complexes and fears, which are better to get rid of, rather than drive them inside himself. Aerophobia can be overcome if you carefully study your fear, delve into the design features of aircraft construction and understand the principles of aerodynamics.

Thousands of people use airline services every day, making multiple flights throughout the year, and continue to live, love, and work in peace. They learned from their own experience that the risk of being a victim of a plane crash is microscopically small. This should be a powerful argument for you. So should you be afraid of airplanes?