8 hours ago
10
February 22, 2025 | 03:40 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Air travel remains the safest mode of transportation, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. However, recent aviation accidents have heightened traveler concerns.
A study by JW Surety Bonds found that 49% of Gen Z, 39% of millennials, 38% of Gen X, and 40% of baby boomers fear flying. Research from apnorc.org also showed a decline in confidence, with 64% of adults considering flying safe—down from 71% in 2024.
Despite this shift in perception, the majority still recognize air travel as a secure means of transportation.
Understanding Flying Anxiety
Flight anxiety ranges from mild unease to severe fear. Jenny Matthews, owner of State of Mind Therapy in Minnesota, explains that mild cases cause restlessness or nausea, while severe cases can trigger panic attacks and flight avoidance.
To manage anxiety, several strategies have been recognized as effective.
1. Recognizing the Safety of Air Travel
Experts, including the National Safety Council, emphasize that flying remains the safest form of transport. Commercial pilots hold the highest aviation credentials, aircraft undergo rigorous maintenance, and flights operate under strict air traffic control regulations.
2. Choosing a Seat with the Best Safety Statistics
An analysis of 35 years of FAA data by Time found that middle seats at the rear of the plane had the lowest fatality rate (28%) compared to aisle seats in the middle cabin (44%). Seats near the wings also provide a more stable ride with less turbulence.
3. Managing Anxiety Through Visualization
Visualization helps reframe anxious thoughts. Georgetown University psychology professor Andrea Bonior suggests imagining stressful situations realistically and identifying steps to stay safe and calm.
4. Acknowledging Emotions
A study in PLOS One found that labeling emotions reduces anxiety. Recognizing fear rather than suppressing it helps release tension. Casual interactions with passengers can also serve as a welcome distraction.
5. Practicing Physical Relaxation
Deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation ease anxiety. Releasing tension from head to toe helps counteract stress symptoms like shallow breathing or clenched muscles. Maintaining steady breathing prevents tension from returning.
6. Using Distractions
Distractions help keep anxiety at bay. Ryanair flight attendant Rhia Kerr recommends noise-canceling headphones to minimize unsettling sounds. Watching a movie, reading, or listening to music can redirect focus while making post-flight plans fosters a sense of control.
NEW YORK POST | LA TIMES
Editor's Choice: Five Items Prohibited in Checked Baggage
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Lucky Air Launches New Route Connecting China's Kunming with Manado
1 hari lalu
Chinese airline company, Lucky Air, officially opened an international flight route from Kunming to Manado.
Emotional Truma Piles Up for Ukraine's Children Three Years After Invasion
1 hari lalu
The invasion in Ukraine has caused children to experience heightened anxiety, with officials reporting a rise in minors seeking mental health support.
Bali Ranks 2nd in Tripadvisor's Best of the Best Destinations 2025
2 hari lalu
According to TripAdvisor's review, Bali is like a living postcard, an Indonesian paradise that feels like a fantasy.
America's 10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in 2025
6 hari lalu
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, America has plenty of beautiful places, offering endless holiday opportunities.
Ten Best Airlines in the World 2025: Airline Rating's New Ranking
8 hari lalu
Discover the best airlines in the world in 2025, where air travel goes beyond expectations.
7 Most Popular Souvenirs to Bring Home Other Than T-Shirts
8 hari lalu
If you are wondering what local goods to buy, this article reveals some of the most popular souvenirs around the world.
When Are Flights Cheapest to Book? Secret Travel Hacks
10 hari lalu
When are flights the cheapest to book? This article will guide you through the best times to book flights and help you find the cheapest airfare.
4 Tips for Sandwich Generation to Keep Mental Health In Check
10 hari lalu
The sandwich generation is responsible for caring for 3 generations at once. Here are tips to maintain mental health for multigenerational caregivers.
Japan Tightens Visits for Filipino Travelers
13 hari lalu
Japan is tightening visa slots for Filipino tourists to manage the surge in arrivals from the country.
Class Matters; Groups of Air Passengers Most Likely to Complain on a Flight
14 hari lalu
Air travel can be a dream or a nightmare depending on seat class, as some groups of air passengers tend to have more to say than others.
