Fear Of Flying Tips

For any fretful or fearful flyer the thought of the annual summer holiday can quite literally bring tears to their eyes. A fear of flying is a genuine problem for one in six adults.

For most, boarding an airplane is an exciting, pleasurable experience. With the thought of exciting destinations at the end of the flight. However, for many it can, starting weeks before travel, fill travellers with utter dread.

Weve all heard the statistic - flying is the safest form of transport but its true so believe it! Well, actually, its the second safest, second only to the lifts and escalator!

So, to help combat the fear of flying, or at the very least make the scared air passenger feel a little better, here are some tips on the fear of flying and how to make that short or long haul flight a bit better. Emotional tips and also some practical tips too!

1.Surround yourself with facts and figures
Try to calm yourself with the knowledge that travelling by air is safe and secure, with 3 million people flying around the world every day. Get to know the facts for example, the chances of you actually being involved in an aircraft accident are actually 1 in 11 million! And to reiterate, its the safest form of transport around.

2.Arrive at the airport in good time
Rushing around at check-in, security and boarding will only add to stress levels. Get to the airport in good time. Look around the shops, try and have a bite to eat, buy some magazines.

3.Select your seat
When you book your flight see if you can book your seat. Book a seat as close to the front as you can. This is proven to help those flying who are scared.

4.In-flight distractions
Try and take your mind of the flight by watching the in-flight entertainment, theres a huge choice of TV channels and movies. Alternatively pack a book or crosswords in your hand luggage. Also pack an iPod or MP3 player loaded with calm music.

5.Keep hydrated but avoid caffeine
All passengers should keep hydrated during a flight, especially those who have a fear of flying. However, avoid caffeine; this will only heighten the bodys anxiety levels.

6.Turbulence
Whilst turbulence can be unsettling for many its rarely a real problem. In fact, most injuries during turbulence are caused because passengers arent wearing their seat belts or luggage that isnt secure. Rather than sit rigid, sway with the movement, this will help to prevent the body tensing up, and also the mind.

7.Think happy thoughts
Thats right think happy thoughts, think about the fun youll have once youve arrived. The people youll meet, the places youll see. Get excited about whats to come, dont dwell on the flight.

8.Talk to your Doctor
If the thought of flying is just too much to bear do go and talk to your GP. They should be able to recommend relaxation and breathing techniques. And in extreme cases may well prescribe some medication.