Fear of Flying
Fear of flying is a common psychological problem
among travellers; recent estimates suggest that between 10-40% of
all travellers experience some kind of phobia. Many factors can
be associated with this condition, all of which need careful consideration
and help. While factors associated with a fear of flying can be
psychological in nature, travellers can also experience further
pre-travel stress due to poor pre-travel preparation.
Plan Ahead
Good planning is essential to overcoming travel
fears. Many in-flight medical emergencies can be attributed to the
stress that builds up at the airport, before the traveller gets
on the plane. Make sure you have visited your family doctor or nurse
for general health advice. Sort out any required vaccinations and
discuss malaria prevention well in advance of your trip. If you
are at risk of DVT, discuss prevention with your doctor or nurse.
Know where you are going
Think about your day of flying before it happens
-- pre-book seats and order any special meals you might require,
including any children's meals. If you have any disabilities, contact
the airline in advance of your trip to discuss special requirements,
such as wheelchairs or assistance on and off the plane.
If you have never travelled to your airport before,
allow plenty of time to get there. If you are unfamiliar with the
airport layout, or are a first time traveller, try a practice run
prior to your day of travel.
Allow plenty of Time
Arrive in plenty of time for your flight and always
allow for delays when you travel. Carry a book in your hand luggage
and have letters to write while you wait. If you feel anxious, take
a portable CD or cassette with calming music to listen to while
you are waiting. Never find yourself stranded at the airport with
nothing to do, and try to avoid the bar while you wait!
Fear is Common
Understand that travel fears are common. Try to
avoid excessive alcohol or drugs as a way of helping you to cope.
Alcohol will not get rid of fears and often exacerbates them; it
will also leave you dehydrated.
If you have to travel a long distance by air, try
to avoid connecting flights. A little extra money spent on a direct
flight is worth the expense, if it means no added anxiety about
possible delays or missed connections.
At the end of the day, if you are suffering
from any form of psychological illness or depression, it is important
that you talk it over with your doctor and consider postponing your
trip until you feel better.
Further Information
Free video clips, podcasts and blogs are available from FlyingWithoutFear.com
Virgin Atlantic's Fear of Flying website also features podcasts
