The Simplest Ways to Make the Best of a Fear of Flying

Aviophobia, or the fear of flying, is not confined to first-time flyers but is also experienced by more seasoned air travelers. Dr. Nadeen White is the creator and editor of The Sophisticated Life blog, which covers topics travel, food and beverages, and culture. She is a globetrotter who struggles with a fear of flying.

White said she started flying when she was only a few months old. “I flew between Jamaica, New York City, and Florida every few months going into adulthood without issues,” she said. “I do remember that I never `enjoyed’ turbulence but it never stopped me from flying.”

But, in her 20s, White had a flight that changed her life. “I was flying from Jamaica to Miami during a storm. The lights on the plane started going in and out, the oxygen masks came down and food trays were crashing into the aisles,” she recalled. “I thought I was going to die. After that flight, I had such anxiety about flying I didn't fly for two years.”

Instead, White was taking the train to Florida to visit family during those two years that she didn't fly. “One trip from Miami to Washington, D.C., took 24 hours. I knew then I needed to get back on a plane,” she said. “Plus, I had a dream to see the world and I knew I could not do that by train.”

White has five great tips on how people with a fear of flying can adapt.

Speak to Frequent Flyers

Ask them their thoughts on what you are afraid of when it comes to flying. For me it is turbulence. My mother, who was a jet-setter, told me to think of it like potholes in the road when driving.

Read and Learn About Airplanes and Their Safety Records

It is the safest form of travel more so than driving. Think of that and how often planes take off without issues and the fact that you probably drive every day.

Speak to a Therapist About Your Fears

Develop relaxation techniques for flying. Breathing exercises when you feel a panic attack will be helpful.

Speak to Your Physician If the Above Doesn’t Help

For those that get panic attacks while flying, medications should be considered.

Take Shorter Flights First to Adapt

Fly with a family member or friend that can help talk to you and distract you when your fear or panic kicks in.

“I also think a course or reading a book about the fear of flying is a great idea,” said White. “I know people with a fear of flying that has done flight simulation classes with success.”

There are lots of courses, both online and offered by airlines and companies, that are geared at adapting to and overcoming a fear of flying, which is highlighted below.