How do planes deal with the jet stream?
In brief High winds are no problem for modern planes Planes are engineered to deal with the high-speed winds at altitude inside and around the … Read More
Fear of Flying Category: Understanding fear of flying
Fear of flying is one of the most common fears and phobias. It’s also one of the most misunderstood. In this section, we unpack what fear of flying actually is, where it comes from, and why even really confident people can feel uneasy in the air.
Each article incorporates genuine psychological insight with real-world reassurance to help you make sense of your reactions and begin to fly with calm and confidence.
Why does it feel like the plane drops after takeoff?
In brief Why the feeling of falling is scary Feeling like your plane experiences a short drop after takeoff is completely normal and is caused … Read More
What happens if lightning hits a plane?
In brief Lightning strikes on planes are normal Lightning strikes on plains aren’t rare and they rarely cause a problem. Aircraft are designed, tested, and … Read More
How autopilot works on planes
In brief What autopilot actually is Autopilot is often imagined as a mysterious black box that somehow “flies the plane on its own”. In reality, … Read More
Afraid of flying during takeoff? Why it can feel unbearable
In brief Why takeoff can trigger anxiety Takeoff is a common anxiety trigger as the moment combines unfamiliar sounds and sensations with the realisation that … Read More
Why fear of flying can start in adulthood – and how you can manage it
In brief Is it rare to develop a fear of flying in adulthood? Developing a fear of flying in adulthood isn’t rare – in fact, … 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
Why aeroplane wings bend so much
In brief Why wings are designed to flex Aeroplane wings bend because they’re designed that way to absorb forces and protect the structural integrity of … 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
Aeroplane noises explained: what every sound means (and why none are dangerous)
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
