What is turbulence penetration speed?
In brief When travelling through turbulence, slower = safer Turbulence penetration speed is the manufacturer’s recommended target speed for travelling through turbulent air. Also known … Read More
Archives: Fear of flying
Why anxiety rises when I book a flight
What’s happening… Booking a flight makes it real… When you book a flight, you commit to air travel – and that can be a source … Read More
Why cabin lights dim before takeoff and landing
In brief It’s all about adjusting your eyesight Cabin lights being dimmed for takeoff and landing is a small precaution that’s there to keep you … Read More
Are night flights smoother?
In brief Turbulence is weather being weather Night flights can feel smoother because the atmospheric conditions that cause certain types of turbulence are reduced. But … Read More
Are bird strikes dangerous?
Why you don’t need to worry about a bird hitting your plane A single bird – or even worse, a flock of birds – striking … Read More
Should I avoid flying if I’m afraid?
I don’t want to fly… Avoiding flying because you’re afraid may seem a logical response but it can actually create more anxiety in the long … Read More
Why checking turbulence forecasts doesn’t calm anxiety
In brief The trouble with turbulence forecasts Checking turbulence forecasts (or weather forecasts, or jet stream forecasts) before a flight is an attempt to get … Read More
Why airplane wings bend so much
In brief Why wings are designed to flex Airplane wings bend because they’re designed that way to absorb forces and protect the structural integrity of … Read More
Why anxious flyers fixate on small sensations
In brief Why fearful flyers are ultra-sensitive in the air People afraid of flying find their nervous systems are working over time in an attempt … Read More
How often do planes crash?
In brief TLDR: Plane crashes are *incredibly* rare Plane crashes involving commercial passenger aircraft are exceptionally rare. In 2024, for example, the accident rate was … Read More
Airplane noises explained: Every sound and sensation on a plane
Flying is full of new sounds, sensations and movements that an anxious brain can interpret as being dangerous – especially if you’re searching for signs … Read More
Why plane crashes cause anxiety – and how you can cope
In brief Why plane crashes affect us emotionally Plane crashes stick in our minds, making us think that they’re more likely to happen than airline … Read More