Fear of flying (aka aerophobia) is one of the most common phobias, affecting millions worldwide. Interestingly, many aerophobes find the experience of flying much more terrifying before takeoff than while in the air. In this post we’ll explore why this is the case and see how science and statistics can help put this fear into perspective.
Pre-flight Anxiety: Why Do You Feel so Fearful?
The anticipation of a flight can be as terrifying as the flight itself. The fear and anxiety experienced before boarding a plane are fueled by several psychological factors:
Uncertainty and Lack of Control
Humans tend to fear the unknown, and flying is an experience many people feel they cannot control. The idea of being enclosed in a small space for hours, soaring through the sky without knowing exactly what will happen, creates a feeling of vulnerability that fuels anxiety.
Catastrophic Imagination
People with a fear of flying often overestimate the risk. They think about the worst that could happen: a plane crash, a mid-flight emergency, or even a mechanical failure. However, these fears are extremely unlikely to come to pass.
Fear of Turbulence
Turbulence is one of the biggest anxiety triggers for passengers. But the reality is that turbulence is common and mostly harmless. The human mind tends to exaggerate the impact of turbulence, even when it’s mild or moderate.
The Reality of Air Travel: Data That Proves How Safe Flying Is
When you look at the real data on flying and air safety, the reality of flying is far less frightening than we often imagine. Here are some key facts:
Probability of an Accident
According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the probability of a commercial aircraft being involved in an accident is one in ten million. This makes flying much safer than many other forms of transportation, such as driving a car.
Turbulence Safety
Turbulence can be uncomfortable, but it is rarely dangerous. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) states that today´s commercial aircraft are designed to withstand severe turbulence without compromising passenger safety. In fact, modern airplanes can handle much more than turbulence can generate.
Maintenance and Advanced Technology
Aircraft are subject to rigorous maintenance standards and constant inspections.
Pilot Training
Pilots undergo years of intensive training and continuous simulation training to handle any unexpected situation. This training includes emergency situations, ensuring they are fully prepared for any unusual event.
Why Does Fear Decrease During a Flight?
Despite pre-flight jitters, many people find that anxiety decreases once the plane is in the air. This is due to several factors:
A Sense of Stability
During the flight, people tend to realize that the plane is flying in a stable and controlled manner. The stresses of turbulence, for example, are usually less than imagined before takeoff.
Distractions
On board, distractions such as reading, watching movies, or listening to music can help reduce anxiety. Cognitive distractions allow people to stop focussing on their fears and make their peace with the flight.
Physiology of Anxiety
Anxiety, although real and powerful, tends to diminish once the situation is directly confronted. Gradual and controlled exposure to flying can reduce the feeling of fear, making people realize that the experience is not as terrifying as they had anticipated.
So remember, the next time you feel anxiety before flying, remember that the statistics are on your side, and the fear you feel is probably much more intense in your mind than in reality. Flying is safe, and once you’re in the air, you’ll find that anxiety quickly dissipates.