I have a couple of family members and friends who are very nervous flyers. Think panic attacks and the works. I used to be a semi-nervous flyer, which may have had something to do with my fear of heights but I am definitely better now. For me the thing that helped me the most was being on a couple of long haul flights. The more you fly in general (like anything I suppose), the easier it is. Here are my tips for those who really struggle when flying or have never been on a plane before and feel trapped on short haul (or no) flights.
Flight simulator
One of my close friends decided to meet her fears head on and so booked herself on a flight simulator course. You can do a quick search for these online and most of these will take place at your nearest large airport hub. On these courses you can learn all about the plane and the science of how the plane stays up. You then have a simulation of what happens during take off and landing, with some courses including a live mini flight so that you can prove to yourself that you are one step closer to besting your fears!
Take a short flight with a seasoned flyer
It is difficult to ask for help but this is a great way to gain confidence by learning from a pro. If you are sitting next to someone who is not panicking at the sound of the engine starting then that is one step to help you come to terms with your own fears. There is nothing worse if you are nervous, to sit next to someone who is also nervous. Nerves feed nerves after all.
Hold someone's hand
You may think that it is silly thing to put on my list, but if you are sitting in your seat and are terrified of take off and landing then why not help yourself to some love and support from your nearest and dearest. Flying solo? Ask the person sitting next to you. You will be surprised at how kind people really are, particularly if you ask for help. You are likely to start a conversation so that you hardly notice that you have even taken off!
Accept that turbulence will happen on one of your flights
Yes it will be slightly scary, even for the seasoned traveller, but it will happen at some point! Guaranteed. If you go on the flight accepting that it might happen then you are half-way there to a much more enjoyable flight: and if there is no turbulence, all the better! I have noticed that every time I cross the Atlantic from the UK there is a period of about 30-45 minutes of turbulence as we cross the Mid Atlantic Rift.
Distract yourself with music
For most people, it is the sound of the engine as you take off and land that cause the most problems with anxiety. The solution? Try and block it out by distracting yourself. I know from first-hand experience that the more you try and block something out the more you almost notice it, so put those headphones on and crank the music up. Pick your favourite tunes and immerse yourself in the music. It will help! I don't go anywhere without my faithful iPod. The good thing nowadays is that you can use your electronic devices from take off as long as the flight-safe mode is switched on.
Check out my previous blog on the essential travel pack list for your next flight!
Are you a nervous flyer? What are your tips for helping to get over the anxiety associated with flying?