Last Updated on April 13, 2023 by Mike Robinson

The specific fear of flying known as aerophobia can cause tachycardia, sweaty hands, and panic attacks. The good news is that you can get over your fear of flying if you need to travel to see friends or family or if you simply want to travel to far-off countries on vacation.

If you use the advice at the end of this article, you won’t have to worry as much about getting on an airplane as you do right now.

Difference Between Aerophobia and the Fear of Flying

There is a distinction between true aerophobia and a simple fear of flying.

When it comes time to fly, people who are afraid to board may feel anxious and uneasy, but many people still manage to board a plane, even if they do not enjoy it.

On the other hand, those who have aerophobia are unable to approach an airplane at all. Tightness in the chest, hand sweating, and panic attacks are all symptoms of anxiety.

They simply can’t even consider boarding a plane because they would pass out if they did. In addition to using the advice in this article, you should follow a professional therapy program to help you overcome this type of phobia.

Why Do Some People Panic Before Flying?

According to statistics released by aviation institutions, one in four people is afraid to travel on an airplane.

Also read: Scenic Panic: 7 Tips to Overcome It Definitely

As previously mentioned, there are various degrees of this fear of flying. Some people feel better shortly after takeoff, while others experience uncontrollable panic attacks. There are many factors that can contribute to a fear of flying, but almost all of them are psychological in nature.

Previous negative experiences

People who have experienced a bad flight before tend to remember it negatively. The signs of phobia come on when there is a chance of a repeat.

Even though the flight might not have been that bad, it is linked to something bad. For instance, someone who took a plane to go to a funeral When they go back to the airport to take another flight, the pain may come back. With it, fear can be brought on.

Fear of the unknown

 Fear arises from having to deal with an unfamiliar situation. There are numerous misconceptions and myths about airplanes in particular that instill fear in people. Statistics show that you are less likely to suffer an accident by plane than by car. However, most people do not know or do not think about it, and so flying is very scary.

Personal Situations

People who experience panic attacks or depression may be more susceptible in some circumstances. The fear of flying can be brought on by these common issues combined with some level of fear.

When flying, it is difficult to control anxiety because, during a flight, the passenger naturally has a lot of free time and few distractions, unlike what happens when traveling by car.

When someone is driving, they have to pay full attention to what they are doing. A passenger can keep themselves busy by, for example, looking at the scenery. On an airplane, it can be hard to keep your nerves in check. Many people who are afraid of flying also have claustrophobia and acrophobia, or a fear of being in small spaces or being high up.

So, it’s hard for them to feel calm in a plane that is thousands of meters above the ground.

8 ways to Overcome Aerophobia

The first step is to pinpoint exactly how you feel: are you afraid or phobic? If you are terrified of flying but can still board a plane, these tips will be extremely beneficial. If, on the other hand, you have never been able to fly and, when you have tried, you have had panic attacks, you should seek professional help in addition to putting these techniques into practice.

1. Attend specialized courses

For overcoming a fear of flying, there are very helpful courses that typically last a few days. The technical aspects of the flight will be explained by a multidisciplinary team that includes psychologists and aviation specialists.

In this way, they make an effort to inform you about what flying entails and why it is safer than, say, driving. Techniques for overcoming these fears are also included when claustrophobia or a fear of heights are present or connected to aerophobia.

Flight simulators are another tool that can help people overcome their fear of flying. When you put on a virtual reality helmet, you experience flying. It will appear as though there is turbulence in the chair.

You gradually expose yourself to the triggers of your fear in this way, eventually conquering it.

2. Gradual exposure 

The exposure technique really involves exposing yourself to simple situations at first (like taking a plane without actually flying). Followed by situations that make you feel more anxious (for example, first walk a few meters without flying and then fly another day).

However, in the case of the specific phobia of flying, the actual exposure is challenging because you need access to an airplane (unless you find a course in which you apply such therapy). Imagine the flight scenario from boarding to sitting in your seat to taking off, flying, and landing if you can make it real in your imagination.

3. Use relaxation techniques.

Yoga is a very effective method for treating phobias in general, along with other relaxation or meditation techniques.

These techniques make use of breathing techniques that are effective at reducing anxiety.

Additionally, they lessen the feeling of dizziness that many passengers encounter while flying. Due to the difference in atmospheric pressure, they are all natural.

4. Travel with a companion.

It is advisable to travel with someone until the phobia is under control, especially on the first flight. Never embark on a lengthy journey alone.

Aerophobia, like other phobias, should be treated gradually, even though it may seem difficult. Starting with a brief trip would even be the best course of action. Do not be embarrassed to discuss your phobia with your companion or the flight crew if you are unable to travel with someone. Remember that the crew has experience and is an expert on these subjects.

Opening up and making an effort to connect with your partner can be extremely helpful at times. Even if it’s just chit-chatting, perhaps you can talk about your phobia or do something to ease its anxiety.

5. Bring entertainment for the trip.

This is something that is suggested for all ages, not just kids and teenagers. It’s a great idea to have books or electronic devices with you to pass the time.

Distraction will make you forget about your fears and direct your attention elsewhere.

6. Consider medicine treatments

Despite the fact that there are many medications available to treat anxiety, never rule out this option. It is advised to take a sleeping pill or a pill that gives you comfort while always under a doctor’s supervision.

Many people feel more at ease just knowing they have it with them. Even some people never get the chance to take it. In any case, medication ought to be used in conjunction with other treatments as a temporary fix.

7.  Wear comfortable clothing.

Even if you’re nervous about flying, you should try to relax as much as you can to keep any negative emotions from joining you.

So, dress comfortably and loosely; stay away from heels and tight clothing. In addition, it’s a good idea to occasionally stretch your legs and take a quick stroll rather than sitting all the time. This improves circulation in the legs, preventing cramps and potential thrombosis, while also easing some anxiety.

8.  Book your ticket with enough time

You can select the seat in this manner. If you’re afraid of flying, you should pick a seat near an emergency exit rather than the aisle because it usually helps you feel more in control. You will feel calmer, and the plane will move less in the front, so choose a seat as far forward as you can.