Yahoo! Canada Answers Blog

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In light of the recent air tragedy in Buffalo, New York, many of us find ourselves dreading the idea of boarding an airplane. After hearing about the terrifying details of the latest plane crash in the news, it’s easy to feel like you’re having a panic attack at the mere thought of an airplane engine. Up to one third of the world’s population has a fear of flying to some degree, despite statistics that show airline travel is 29 times safer than driving a car. In fact, 20 per cent of air passengers are fearful flyers.

Are you among those who let their imagination run wild whenever there’s turbulence? Do you feel claustrophobic inside a plane? If so, your anxiety is understandably justified, especially at over 30,000 feet above the ground or ocean. After all, being a flight passenger is almost like being a backseat driver whose life rests in the hands of pilots that we have to trust know what they’re doing.

Believe it or not, there are many ways to cope with or overcome flying anxiety. Just like any phobia, it is very important to acknowledge and research it. Try to find out exactly what scares you. Fear of flying is quite common, so it is very easy to find books about how to deal with it. Medication is a last resort as determination and willpower may help you get over the anxiety.

Next time you’re on a plane, bring something to keep you busy. Watching DVDs of my favourite TV show takes a lot of stress off when I am stuck on a long flight. I barely have time to break a sweat over the turbulence as my eyes are glued to my computer screen. A good book will also do the trick, but those who tend to analyze every sound the plane makes should bring some music to keep their mind (and ears!) off the fear.

If it’s too late for that, and the fear is present in your mind, use relaxation techniques to chase it away. Facing your fear — also known as cognitive therapy — is the most effective way of overcoming it.

 How do you cope with flying anxiety?