Aerophobia: Causes of The Fear of Flying

Aerophobia is the fear of flying. Statistics reveal that many people suffer from it. Different factors can cause aerophobia like the fear of the unknown, the fear of heights, the fear of being in a tight space, the fear of not escaping, the fear of not being in control, etc. Not having the capacity to be in control like driving a car makes someone thoughtful about any malfunction and crash that will therefore create trigger irrational anxiety.

Not knowing how an airplane works can generally trigger a fear of flying. Knowing the basics of aeronautics helps one understand that flight is one of the safest modes of travel, apart from those who have a phobia or a particular type of disorder that can cause high levels of anxiety due to closed spaces, heights, or large crowds in an aircraft. Many of us suffer from ignorance that drives us to make illogical decisions. Understanding the basics mechanism of an airplane would help reduce the fear of flying and promote smart travel. These basics will prepare you for the unexpected example, what causes turbulence, or the sound you hear during take-off and landing.

For example, it is comforting to know that airplanes have alternate sources of power and can continue to fly even if the engine fails. It lessens the concern of having the airplane malfunction. An aircraft flies under control measures that are put in place to ensure the safety of passengers and flight crew. Poor weather, turbulence, and noises can provoke anxiety while flying or take-off. Therefore getting to know the plane you are flying on makes it all worthwhile.

Studies show that 60% of people with a fear of flying report having some other anxiety disorder. There are cases where the estimated lower end has a condition diagnosed by a professional, and the higher end is by self-diagnosed people. Aviation safety through regulation, education, and training reduces the risk of accidents. By 2019 fatal accidents per million flights decreased 12 folds since 1970. Pilot error accounts for between one-third, and 60% of aviation accidents, advances in automation and technology could replace some or all the duties of an airplane pilot and flight engineers. Due to improved engineering and investigation, safety has increased.

Flight fear is brought upon by other factors that cause one to be anxious. By treating the actual source of fear, especially in diagnosing cases, it will surely help people understand that flying is not as bad as we think.