Soaring Fears: Effective Strategies to Tackle In-Flight Anxiety

NEW YORK — The anxiety surrounding air travel is on the rise, according to psychologists and flight attendants. Many individuals are expressing increased worries about flying, even those who previously felt comfortable with it.

Adelynn Campbell, 30, experienced a severe panic attack on a flight last year, a situation exacerbated by the tragic January collision of an American Airlines jet with a helicopter that resulted in 67 fatalities. This incident has since heightened her apprehension, making her reluctant to book future flights.

“It’s definitely spiked my concern,” Campbell, a coffee shop manager in San Diego, remarked. “It’s making the whole situation a little more stressful than it used to be.”

Experts note that the anxiety about flying, or aerophobia, affects nearly 25 million adults in the U.S. This intense form of anxiety often surfaces in adulthood, spawning from life changes or negative experiences associated with air travel, such as turbulence.

According to Jennifer Dragonette, a psychologist in California, even those without pre-existing fears are now voicing concerns about air travel. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has acknowledged shortcomings in ensuring air safety, contributing to a growing unease among travelers.

Data from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) indicates that air travel declined in early 2023 compared to the previous year, a trend attributed to factors like economic uncertainty and increasing fears of aviation incidents.

Campbell, who identifies as transgender, mentioned that travel often comes with additional stress due to concerns about her treatment during security checks and interactions at airports. For many, anxiety related to flying stems more from feelings of claustrophobia and lack of control rather than fear of an accident.

So, how can one cope with flying anxiety? While statistics show flying remains one of the safest modes of transportation, experts emphasize that reasoning alone cannot alleviate anxiety disorders. Techniques like deep breathing can help manage milder fears, while more severe cases may benefit from exposure therapy. This can start with familiarization through photos, videos, or virtual reality experiences.

Carbonell encourages patients to take practice flights without the pressure of work obligations. Keeping a written record of their symptoms can assist in processing their anxiety. “We’re using counting as a proxy for acceptance,” he explained.

For those facing severe anxiety, asking for help is vital. Nelson, a former flight attendant, often comforts passengers by offering her hand during difficult moments. Campbell recalls a supportive flight attendant who assisted her during a panic attack, demonstrating the importance of understanding and empathy within the aviation industry.

As air travel continues to face scrutiny, understanding and addressing flying anxiety becomes crucial for both passengers and industry professionals. With rising apprehensions, attention to mental health should play a larger role in facilitating a more comfortable travel experience.