7 Tips to Beat Your Fear of Flying Once and for All

Kathleen Corrigan | April 21, 2015

If the thought of being trapped in a giant metal bird 30,000 feet in the air with a bunch of strangers makes your palms sweat and your throat close up, you may be one of the many people who have a fear of flying. Known as “aviophobia,” nearly 20 million Americans say they suffer from it to such a degree that it actually affects their work and social lives.

So what’s a wanderlusting aviophobe to do? You could stick to road trips and boat cruises, but cars can only take you so far, and cruise ships are for old people. If you’re tired of staying grounded while your family and friends zip from one fantastic locale to another, here are some ways to help you get over your fear of flying once and for all.

Learn-Your-Triggers l i g h t p o e t / Shutterstock

Learn Your Triggers

The first step in facing any fear is identifying what it is that’s triggering you. Is it the take-off, turbulence, or landing? Is it linked to a fear of heights knowing you’ll be thousands of miles up in the air? For many, it’s simply the thought of having a panic attack in the skies where there’s no escape and a cabin full of strangers watching you. Knowing what triggers you means you’ll be better equipped to manage your fears when your anxiety is low and weather the storm when it’s high.

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After boarding a flight, most people just stuff their boarding pass into their carry-on and forget about it. By doing this, you’re missing out on potential savings. Many airlines offer discounts and freebies for those who keep their boarding pass. Depending on where you land, you could score savings on tourist attractions, restaurants, wine, or even airport transfers.

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How to Make Friends During Your Trip

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