Have you ever felt nervous or anxious when flying, especially when you experience turbulence? If so, you’re not alone. Many people experience anxiety and fear when flying, and turbulence is one of the biggest contributors to this fear. In this blog post, I’ll share some tips on how to overcome your fear of turbulence and enjoy your flights.
What is turbulence?
Turbulence is a disturbance in the air that can cause a plane to shake or bounce. It’s caused by changes in air pressure and can occur for a variety of reasons, including changes in temperature, wind shear, and atmospheric pressure. Turbulence can occur at any time during a flight, but it’s most common during takeoff and landing, as well as during storms or when flying over mountains.
How common is turbulence?
Turbulence is a normal part of flying, and most flights experience some level of turbulence. In fact, pilots expect to encounter turbulence on almost every flight. However, the level of turbulence can vary from mild to severe, depending on the weather and other factors.
How dangerous is turbulence?
Despite its reputation, turbulence is generally not dangerous. Commercial airplanes are designed to withstand turbulence, and pilots are trained to fly through it safely. While turbulence can be uncomfortable and even frightening, it rarely causes serious harm.
Types of Turbulence:
There are four types of turbulence: light, moderate, severe, and extreme. Here’s what you need to know about each type:
- Light turbulence: This is the most common type of turbulence and feels like a slight shaking or bumping. It may cause some movement of loose objects, but it’s generally not a cause for concern.
- Moderate turbulence: This type of turbulence is more noticeable than light turbulence and can cause some difficulty in walking or standing. Objects may move more noticeably, and it may be difficult to read or use a computer.
- Severe turbulence: This type of turbulence can be frightening and may cause passengers to feel like they’re being tossed around. Objects may be thrown around the cabin, and it can be difficult to remain seated.
- Extreme turbulence: This is the most severe type of turbulence and is very rare. It can cause the plane to experience sudden drops or jolts and can be very frightening for passengers.
What to do during turbulence:
When you experience turbulence, it’s important to stay calm and follow the instructions of the flight crew. Here are some things you can do to stay safe during turbulence:
- Stay seated with your seatbelt fastened: This is the most important thing you can do during turbulence. Keep your seatbelt fastened at all times, even when the seatbelt sign is turned off.
- Hold on to any loose objects: Make sure any loose objects are stowed away or held securely.
- Avoid standing or walking: When the seatbelt sign is on, stay in your seat and avoid walking around the cabin.
- If you are in an infant carrier, keep it strapped in: Infant carriers should be securely strapped in during turbulence.
- If you are in a wheelchair, secure it to the floor: If you are traveling in a wheelchair, make sure it’s secured to the floor of the plane during turbulence.
Tips for flying during turbulence:
While turbulence can be unsettling, there are things you can do to make your flight more comfortable. Here are some tips:
- Choose a seat in the middle of the plane: Turbulence is often felt more strongly at the front and back of the plane, so choose a seat in the middle of the plane.
- Avoid sitting near the front or back of the plane: As mentioned above, turbulence is often felt more strongly at the front and back of the plane, so try to avoid these areas.
- Avoid sitting over the wings: Although the wings of an aircraft are designed to flex during turbulence, sitting over the wings can still be uncomfortable.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated: Staying hydrated can help you feel more comfortable during your flight. It’s best to drink water or juice and avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these can make anxiety worse.
- Get up and move around every few hours: Moving around the cabin can help you feel more comfortable and reduce the risk of developing blood clots.
- Take deep breaths and relax: Deep breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques can help you stay calm and reduce anxiety.
Tips for Overcoming Your Fear of Turbulence
If you have a fear of turbulence, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. It’s a common fear that many people experience, but the good news is that there are ways to overcome it. In this section, we will discuss some tips for overcoming your fear of turbulence.
Educate yourself about turbulence
The more you know about turbulence, the less scary it will seem. Turbulence is caused by changes in air pressure and temperature, and it is a normal part of flying. Pilots are trained to navigate through turbulence safely, and commercial airplanes are designed to withstand it. By learning more about turbulence, you can understand that it’s a natural occurrence and not something to be afraid of.
Talk to your doctor
If your fear of turbulence is severe, you may want to talk to your doctor. They may be able to recommend therapy or medication to help you overcome your fear. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common treatment for phobias, and it can be very effective in helping you overcome your fear of turbulence.
Practice relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help to calm your nerves and reduce anxiety. Try practicing these techniques before and during your flight to help you feel more relaxed.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine
Alcohol and caffeine can make anxiety worse, so it’s best to avoid them before and during your flight. Stick to water or herbal tea instead, and avoid sugary drinks that can cause a crash later.
Choose a seat in the middle of the plane
Turbulence is often felt more strongly at the front and back of the plane. Choosing a seat in the middle of the plane can help to reduce the sensation of turbulence and make you feel more comfortable.
Wear loose clothing
Tight clothing can make it difficult to breathe, which can make anxiety worse. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows you to move and breathe easily.
Bring a book or magazine
Having something to focus on during turbulence can help to take your mind off of it. Bring a book, magazine, or puzzle book to keep you occupied and distracted during the flight.
Talk to a friend or family member
Talking to someone you trust can help you to feel more relaxed and secure. If you’re flying with a friend or family member, talk to them about your fear of turbulence and ask for their support.
Remember that the plane is safe
Commercial airplanes are designed to withstand turbulence, and they undergo rigorous safety checks before each flight. Remember that you are in good hands and that the plane is built to handle any turbulence it may encounter.
Trust the pilots
Pilots are trained to handle turbulence, and they have experience navigating through it safely. Trust that they know what they’re doing and that they will do everything in their power to keep you safe.
Final Words on Tips For Overcoming Your Fear Of Turbulence
Overcoming your fear of turbulence is possible. By educating yourself about turbulence, practicing relaxation techniques, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, choosing a seat in the middle of the plane, wearing loose clothing, bringing a distraction, talking to a friend or family member, remembering that the plane is safe, and trusting the pilots, you can learn to manage your fear and enjoy your flights. If your fear of turbulence is severe, consider talking to your doctor or seeking professional help to overcome it.
