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How to overcome your fear of flying

Ideas on how to get over your fear of flying.

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People fear flying for many different reasons. Some people are afraid because they may have heard of people who have died in plane accidents. Other people may be afraid because when you look out the windows of the plane when you are up in the air, you can't see much except clouds. Still, other people might be afraid because they have no control over the plane. They may be afraid of hi-jacking, or other criminal activity on board that they will not be able to escape one up in the air. People may be afraid that since they are not flying the plane and they have to trust the pilot, that is scary to them, because when they are driving a car, at least they have some control.

Others might be afraid because they are up in the air, and they might be afraid of the plane crashing into water if the plane runs out of gas, or they might be afraid of landing: will the plane have a soft landing, or will the plane come to a screeching halt on ground when it lands? There's also always the fear that the pilot not be rested and will fall asleep while trying to fly the plane. The fears when it comes to flying are endless. There are a few things to remember about these fears, though.

1. Usually, if a pilot had a long night before your flight, the pilot will sleep in and relax before he goes and flies another flight. Your flight may end up delayed because of this, but it's worth it, so that the pilot doesn't fall asleep while trying to fly the plane.

2. There are more car crashes than plane crashes by far. One major reason for this is because you are up in the air when you are flying, and there is not much, if any traffic up there. You aren't going to crash into another plane or anything while you are up there. There is barely any traffic in the air.

3. If you are scared about flying, you might want to let a stewardess know. They might be able to do something to help your flight more comfortable.

4. Know that there are many safety options on the flight. Usually, your seat on the plane can be taken out and used as a float if any emergencies were to happen. Also, there is an oxygen mask that falls from the ceiling in case any emergencies occur.

5. If you are scared when going up into the air or landing, don't look out the window. It only makes it worse. Thankfully, there is a little bag in the pocket of reading materials they give you, in case you get sick.

6. Try to fly with someone that you trust and love, like your spouse. This way, you can hold his/her hand when you are going up or down while flying, and they can have the window seat. If you are really scared, I highly recommend not looking out the window, at least not the first few times.

7. Fly more frequently. Sounds like strange advice, right? Well, the more you fly and the more you get used to it, the more comfortable you'll feel. And you will get used to it.

8. Try to preoccupy yourself when on the plane. There is usually food and/or drink served on the place, and that is usually a good way to preoccupy yourself. Bring a book or crossword puzzle, or listen to music.




Written by Ariane Seifert - © 2002 Pagewise


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