I'm scared of flying and I have a flight in a couple of hours. Help??

Show all answers

Bert from Oz

I think the best thing to do is to understand what is happening - then you'll know there's nothing to be afraid of!

I'm a pilot by trade - so trust me, I meet people all the time who are scared of flying. They range from people who are first time flyers to couples where one is scared and the other fine to people who've flown for years and still never quite got over the fear...when I talk to them a bit, I find the big concern is not understanding.

They don't know what happens, why things feel this or that way, and they need reassurance about the things that seem odd. Also, they quite often need myths to be burst - TV and movies are hopeless for spreading nasty ideas about flying that are simply impossible!

Some common ideas to follow... :-)

Most people tell me they are scared of crashing - that's the big one. If we take that though and look at the stats, some rather cunning analysts a year or two ago figured out that on average, you would have to fly 10 hours a DAY, for about 12 million years until you would be guaranteed to be involved in a crash.

So in other words, they are so few, the odds are literally one in billions!

Not to mention, most crashes happen on landing, when the plane is slow, close to the ground and people survive - very, very few plunge from the sky. In fact, virtually none. Most people survive the actual crash, then those who suffer are the ones who don't know what to do after - so the best thing you can do is pay attention to the safety brief - and bear it in mind. It'll put your mind at rest because if something went wrong, you'll know what to do...trust me. :-)

People often worry about us as pilots. They're scared we'll get sick or forget what we're doing. Not going to happen!

To fly for an airline, a pilot needs literally years of flying experience...and then once s/he's in, they need years more to become a captain and be in charge. This is why you see most airline pilots are in their 30s - 50s!

I'm only in my 20s and still working away at the hours I need to be an airline pilot. Even when I get the flying experience, I need to be accepted - and the airlines only take the best on board.

Once they're taken in, you have medical screens annually. Don't pass it? Then you stop flying - it's simple. So we know the pilots are fit and healthy!

Then there are tests every few months. From what I've heard, the tests are tough and they make sure the pilots can handle EVERYthing possible - and they do it all by the book and properly. Again - no pass, no fly.

So the two or more fellas flying your plane will be fit, experienced, well trained and capable... :-) you're in good hands! It's not like being a bus driver...

Now - onto the plane, for a few facts and mythbustings.

For a start, fuel. A lot of people are scared stiff about running out - but it just doesn't happen. The flight is planned bit by bit and when the fuel needed is worked out, an extra 10% is added, then more and more added to cover any event (like a delay) - and finally, an extra reserve added...just in case.

Doors - people think they can open in flight...WRONG. The pressure of the air inside the plane actually holds the door into its frame - and it is physically impossible to open!

Engines - jet engines are incredibly reliable - even more so than your car! Plus they are serviced continually, inspected after each flight and even if one or more fails, a plane can keep flying on the remainders. A four engine jet can fly on just one if it needs! It's slow - but it'll keep up there :-)

Wings - you'll see if you look out the window, the wings flex and parts move. This is totally normal. The flexing is just caused by wind - and it stops the wing stressing. It's like if someone grabs your arm and pulls - it'll move, naturally, at the joints - this stops it being hurt! The wing is the same.

As for the moving parts - these are actually brakes ("spoilers") and flaps - which help the wing make more or less lift when it needs. So they move up from the wing or back from it - nothing to be scared of.

The last thing is the actual feelings...

During takeoff, you'll feel pushed back into your seat - even more in the climb. Perfectly natural - it's just the plane accelerating - being such a powerful machine, it makes more of an effect like that than any car!

Turning in the air might feel weird too - because the plane tilts...again, it's totally normal - the plane won't roll over! But as it tilts, the nose can swing around to where it needs to be.

Finally...noise. Unfortunately, the plane's manufacturers can only block out a certain amount of engine noise - the rest is still heard...some people think the engines are exceptionally noisy - they are, but unlike a car, they're moving a few hundred people and there's 2 - 4 of them, not just one...so don't be stressed.

Certainly if you have any more flying concerns, send me an email with your questions - but otherwise I hope I helped!

Think of this...you're in more danger getting to and around the airport than you are in the air... :-) it's just that you're more used to ground travel than air.

Air travel is the safest in the world - for a reason! And everything that happens in the plane is for a reason - so nothing is wrong if they make a change :-)

Enjoy your trip!

Kevin M

My very first flight the lady next to me was terrified, so she grabbed my arm and dug her nails in during the takeoff and landing. One time flying into Anchorage smoke filled the cabin, another time into Anchorage the pilot came on and warned us it would be rough because of the cross wind. Landing in Honolulu, we had a door seal come loose in air and were paced by the emergency crews as we landed. So just keep in mind that minor things can happen, but they're so well trained that the pilots can get through anything. I'd suggest bringing an ipod, maybe take a benedryl a half hour before the flight leaves, get a window seat so you can see what's going on, and sit back in your seat.

mark m

You are safer in the air than on the highway! More people die on roads in one year than have ever died in plane crashes! You do not have as highly trained driver as you do flying

murphywingedspur

Try and take something with you to distract yourself. On take off, breathe deeply, relax your muscles as much as you possibly can, close your eyes....just concentrate on your destination. Immerse yourself in a good book, or the in-flight film, or take a puzzle book along ...anything to distract yourself. I'm sure you'll be fine. When you're next due to fly, prepare yourself well in advance. Get some Syndol tablets from your local chemist. these are actually for tension headaches, but contain a mild muscle relaxant, which is ideal for when you're flying, as they do help you to relax, and to sleep too!

turner

When you watch a plane take off or land, it looks effortless and smooth....but if you're inside the cabin it can be bumpy and seem like you're out of control. It's good to keep this in mind. Also, a little drink never hurt anyone ; )

thinker

Don't let your fears keep you grounded. Fear Takes Flight can give you the confidence and power to take control of your life and enjoy the freedom to travel that flying offers.
every one does it , i mean you're not going to be alone in the airplane. take step by step, first go to the airport, second go into the plane and 3'rd stay calm when the flight is about to start and have fun. trust me you will be fine.

GRAY S

i was the same but trust me it aint that bad honest just try to relax and enjoy the ride it it helps get a book and read it anything to take your mind off it

Maria

drug yourself, or take gravol to sleep. It shuts down the nervous system so that should help you relax.

Love Peace Happiness

my mom is was da same
just think there are more accidents on car then on plane so relax and just enjoy the flight!

Enter Your Message or Comment

User Name:
User Email:
Post a comment: