Plane wing amongst the clouds with the sun rising

Facing Your Fears: Overcoming Your Fear of Flying

  • 26th October 2022
  • 6 min read

Flying is a safe and efficient way to travel, but for some people, the thought of getting on a plane can be daunting. If you have a fear of flying, you're not alone — an estimated 25% of Canadians avoid flying due to anxiety. But there are ways to overcome your fear and take to the skies with confidence.

With a little knowledge and practice, you can overcome your fear of flying and enjoy the many benefits of air travel.

The Benefits of Flying

Flying is one of the safest and most efficient modes of transportation available today. In fact, studies show that flying is actually safer than driving! According to the National Safety Council, the chance of being involved in a fatal car accident is one in six million. The chance of dying in a plane crash is only one in 11 million. This is because commercial airlines are required to follow strict safety regulations in order to maintain their operating license. Furthermore, pilots undergo extensive training in order to ensure that they are able to safely operate an aircraft.

Most people believe that the only benefit of flying is that it gets you to your destination much faster than any other mode of transportation. While this is certainly a perk, there are many other benefits that come with flying that are often overlooked. For example, flying can be much more relaxing than driving or taking a bus or train. There is no need to worry about traffic jams or making frequent stops. You can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

Finally, flying can be less expensive than you think. If you are willing to fly during off-peak times and take advantage of discounts, you can often find very affordable flights.

So, if you're someone who is afraid of flying, know that there are plenty of reasons to feel good about taking to the skies. Not only is it a safe way to travel, but it's also fast and convenient.

Air Canada plane coming into land

Overcoming Your Fear of Flying

Some people are scared of flying because they don't like the idea of being in a confined space for a long period of time. Others are worried about the safety of flying, especially after hearing stories about plane crashes. And some people simply don't like the idea of being up in the air! Whatever the reason, flying can be a daunting experience for some people.

The best way to overcome a fear of flying is to educate yourself about the safety of airplane travel and to fly frequently. Start by reading books or articles about flying, watching documentaries, and talking to friends or family members who have flown before. Once you have a better understanding of how flying works and what makes it safe, start taking small steps toward getting on a plane. Begin by visiting an airport and watching planes take off and land.

Then, take some short flights within your comfort zone to get used to the experience of being in an airplane. After you have flown a few times and feel more comfortable, try taking a longer flight to your destination. If you can, fly with someone you know and trust to help ease your anxiety. With each step, you will build up your confidence until you are finally ready to take a long-haul flight.

Flying does not have to be a scary experience. By preparing yourself mentally and emotionally, you can overcome your fear and enjoy the many benefits of air travel.

Tips for a Successful Flight

Flying can be a stressful experience, but there are some simple tips that you can follow to make your flight go as smoothly as possible. Be sure to arrive at the airport early so that you have plenty of time to check in and go through security. It is important to choose a seat that you feel comfortable in and that has plenty of legroom. If you are able to, upgrade your seat to one with more space or choose an aisle seat so that you can stretch your legs out. It is also a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and shoes as you will be sitting down for a long period of time.

Once you're on the plane, try to relax and take deep breaths to keep yourself calm. Make sure to adjust your seatbelt so that it is snug but not too tight. Then, sit back and try to relax. You can also listen to music or watch a movie to help take your mind off of the flight. If you start to feel claustrophobic, it is okay to get up and walk around the cabin for a few minutes. Just be sure to stay seated during takeoff and landing.

One of the most common worries is turbulence. There's no need to be scared of turbulence – it's just a natural occurrence when flying in an airplane. Turbulence can happen for a variety of reasons, including air pockets and changes in atmospheric pressure. It's usually not dangerous, and the plane is designed to withstand it. If you're ever feeling nervous about turbulence, just remember that the pilots are experienced professionals who know how to handle it.

If you start to feel anxious, close your eyes and picture yourself somewhere peaceful. Lastly, remember that the vast majority of flights arrive at their destination without any incident – so there's no need to worry!

By following these tips, you can help reduce your anxiety and make flying a more enjoyable experience. Who knows – you might even start to enjoy it!

 

Flying has many benefits that make it a great mode of transportation, despite the fact that some people are afraid of flying. With a little education and practice, anyone can overcome their fear of flying. And by following some simple tips, you can make your flight go as smoothly as possible. So next time you have the opportunity to fly, don't let your fear hold you back – get on that plane and enjoy the ride!

Tommy Lloyd
Author: Tommy Lloyd, Managing Director

Tommy has over 15 years experience within the insurance industry, having worked with some of the worlds largest insurers. Tommy’s primary focus has been developing the best possible online experience for travellers looking to compare travel insurance rates. Music and travel are two of Tommy's greatest interests, and even better when he can combine the two together!

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