For many people, traveling and flying by airplane are associated with a sense of freedom, adventure, and excitement. However, for some, it brings about intense fear and stress. This condition is known as aerophobia. But what lies behind this fear? Is it a fear of losing control, claustrophobia, or something else?
Aerophobia is an extreme fear of flying. People with this condition may be afraid of takeoff, landing, or simply being confined inside an airplane.
Interestingly, many individuals with aerophobia are not necessarily afraid of a plane crash. Statistics show that air travel has one of the lowest fatality rates. Yet for those with aerophobia, even thinking about flying or anticipating a flight can be just as distressing as the flight itself.
What causes aerophobia?
Aerophobia is not caused by a single specific reason. It may be triggered by a variety of factors. For example:
- Hearing news about terrorism or plane crashes
- Takeoff and landing
- Thoughts about fire or disease spreading on the plane
- Turbulence (the shaking of the airplane)
Phobias that may worsen or intensify aerophobia:
- Acrophobia – Fear of heights
- Agoraphobia – Fear of leaving home or being in situations where escape might be difficult if something goes wrong
- Anthropophobia – Fear of people
- Claustrophobia – Fear of enclosed or confined spaces
- Mysophobia – Fear of germs or contamination
Symptoms:
If you have aerophobia, you may avoid flying at all costs. You might turn down family trips or work-related travel. People with aerophobia may also experience panic attacks either before the flight or during it. Symptoms can include:
- Sweating
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Excessive perspiration
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Shaking or trembling
Managing and Treating Aerophobia:
Medication Treatment – If you have a scheduled flight and are afraid of having a panic attack, a doctor can prescribe medication tailored to your concerns and provide you with an individualized treatment plan.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – CBT aims to change your thought patterns about flying. This may include reviewing statistics on flight safety. A therapist will also teach you techniques to manage symptoms — for example, deep breathing or meditation to reduce anxiety.
Exposure Therapy – This therapy involves gradually becoming accustomed to places, thoughts, or situations related to air travel. You might start by visiting an airport or watching planes take off and land.
Author: Tinatin Omanadze
Editors: Elene Gogokia, Guga Siharulidze, Elene Khomeriki