Turbulence Got You Down? Flight Attendants Share Secrets to Soothe In-Flight Anxiety
For many air travelers, the unnerving sensation of unexpected turbulence is a familiar foe.One moment the flight is smooth sailing, the next, the cabin feels as if it’s caught in a cosmic washing machine. While turbulence is a routine part of air travel, its unpredictability can trigger significant anxiety for passengers.
Studies show that turbulence is a major contributor to flight-related anxiety, often leading to passengers catastrophizing and fearing the worst. But seasoned flight attendants, who navigate the skies daily, offer practical advice to help nervous flyers stay calm when the ride gets bumpy.
Planes are Designed for This
“First and foremost, understand that the airplane is designed to fly through turbulence,” says Laura Nottingham, an Atlanta-based flight attendant with Delta Air Lines. “Nothing is wrong with the aircraft. Pilots are highly trained professionals and know how to expertly handle turbulence. There are various reasons turbulence occurs: wind, changes in air temperature, thunderstorms, etc.”
Understanding the science behind turbulence can be a powerful tool for anxious passengers.”Air turbulence is a common occurrence,” echoes Yulanda Armstrong, an Eastern Airlines flight attendant and air transportation ground instructor in Guyana. “It is a helpful technique to decrease travelers’ anxiety by helping them understand the effects of turbulence. in most instances, turbulence appears more detrimental than it may seem. The industry should communicate the rhetoric that ‘turbulence should be expected as opposed to dreaded.'”
Recent data from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) indicates that turbulence-related injuries, while relatively rare, are on the rise. A report released earlier this year highlighted an increase in incidents involving moderate to severe turbulence, prompting calls for improved detection and reporting systems. This data underscores the importance of understanding that while planes are designed to withstand turbulence, it’s a phenomenon that is being taken increasingly seriously by aviation authorities.
Breathe and Meditate
For Doménica Jiménez,an Ecuador-based flight attendant with Eastern Airlines,mindful breathing is key. “I personally have dealt with anxiety since my teenage years,” she says. “A tip that helps me now in my career in the skies is slow breathing. Being mindful of my breathing by slowing inhaling and exhaling has been a game changer.It helps me to stay calm during turbulence and also do my job.”
Did you know that Delta Air Lines offers in-flight meditation classes led by Peloton instructors as part of its entertainment options? Many airlines are recognizing the need to address passenger anxiety with tangible resources. The meditation company Headspace has partnered with carriers such as JetBlue Airways and United Airlines, to provide in-flight guided relaxation.
“meditate or take a deep breath to help slow your breathing,” Nottingham advises, adding that short meditations can help passengers feel more mindful and comfortable during a flight.
Distract Yourself
“What better way to relax than by distracting yourself?” Nottingham says. “take advantage of the time you have during flight to read a book, listen to music, or make that to-do list.”
Ice Pack Relief
“some passengers are not so afraid of turbulence, but really are afraid of getting airsick,” Nottingham says.
For those battling nausea, immediate action can help. “Nothing cures nausea faster than an ice pack on the back of the neck,” she notes.
Talk to the Crew
Flight attendants are trained to handle a variety of passenger needs, including anxiety. “Let your flight attendant know if you get anxious, so we can support you throughout your journey,” says Kim Howard, an Avelo Airlines flight attendant based in Connecticut. “I’ve had customers come on the plane in tears. I will whisper to them, ‘Are you an anxious flyer?’ They say, ‘Yes, I hate turbulence.’ I ask their seat number and will reassure them before takeoff and check on them throughout the flight.”
Howard emphasizes that flight attendants do more than just pass out snacks. They are also trained to keep order and promote safety ― and to do so with kindness. So don’t hesitate to reach out if you need reassurance or even a moment of distraction.
listen Up
Pilots often provide updates on anticipated turbulence. “An announcement from our captain during turbulence goes a long way,” Howard says. “The captain will often assure customers turbulence will be a short period of time throughout the changes of altitude. Of course, there are different levels of turbulence. Some are more severe than others. But, most times it is mild and for short periods of time.”
Consider a Seat Change
“At Eastern, if we notice a passenger is really nervous about their journey in the skies, and they’re seated toward the back, we offer to re-accommodate them to another part of the aircraft where the turbulence may feel lighter, like the front of the aircraft or near the wings,” Jiménez says.
Remember, Professionals Are in Control
“I have encountered passengers whose responses to turbulence ranged from mild to severe anxiety during my career,” armstrong says. “My ideal technique is reassurance.Passengers want to know that they are safe.”
Armstrong reminds herself that she is equipped with the skills and knowledge to remedy difficult situations and is responsible for the safety of all passengers. This understanding ― that trained professionals are in control ― can help ease passenger anxiety as well.
“During a flight when I experienced passengers with high anxiety, which impaired their ability to co-operate with our procedures, I announced, ‘Ladies and gentlemen, remain calm.The flight attendants have the situation under control,'” she recalls.”Immediately, the passengers where calm and cooperative.”
Jiménez said she reminds anxious passengers that aircraft are one of the safest modes of transportation and that pilots and flights attendants are highly trained professionals.
“While flying through the sky can be daunting, the aircraft is designed to keep us safe and the entire staff on board is trained to keep you safe and comfortable,” she notes.
Take Care of Yourself
Readiness is key. “It is always best to be well prepared for your flight,” Howard says. “hydrate the night before. Bring your favorite snacks, books, magazine, and, nowadays, you can download movies or TV shows. The better prepared you are makes for a less anxious flight.”
Counterargument: Some might argue that these tips are overly simplistic and don’t address the root cause of flight anxiety, which can stem from deeper psychological issues like claustrophobia or past traumatic experiences. Though, while professional therapy is undoubtedly beneficial for severe cases, these readily accessible techniques can provide immediate relief and empower passengers to manage their anxiety in the moment, improving their overall flying experience.
FAQ: Turbulence and Flight Anxiety
Is turbulence dangerous? While turbulence can be uncomfortable, modern aircraft are designed to withstand even severe turbulence. Pilots are highly trained to handle these situations safely.
What causes turbulence? Turbulence can be caused by various factors,including changes in air pressure,jet streams,and thunderstorms.
Where is the best place to sit on a plane to minimize the feeling of turbulence? The area near the wings is generally considered the most stable part of the plane during turbulence.
can pilots predict turbulence? Pilots use weather reports, radar, and reports from other aircraft to anticipate turbulence, but some forms of turbulence, like clear-air turbulence, are difficult to predict.
* What if I have a panic attack during turbulence? notify a flight attendant immediately. They are trained to assist passengers experiencing anxiety and can offer support and reassurance.
What are some tips flight attendants use to help passengers manage anxiety during turbulence?
flight Attendant Forum: Navigating Turbulence & Easing In-Flight Anxiety
Hello, and welcome to Archyde News. Today, we’re delving into a topic that affects many air travelers: in-flight anxiety, notably when turbulence strikes. Joining us is Anya Sharma,a seasoned flight attendant with over 15 years of experience and a specialist in passenger well-being for AirHorizon Airlines. Anya, welcome!
Thank you for having me. I’m happy to be here.
Anya, let’s start with the basics. What’s the first thing you tell a nervous passenger when turbulence hits?
The very first thing is to reassure them that they’re safe. I tell them, “The plane is built to handle this. It’s like driving on a bumpy road; it’s uncomfortable, but its not dangerous.” Reassurance and reminding them that trained professionals are in control is key.
That’s reassuring indeed. The article mentioned that airlines are seeing an uptick in turbulence-related injuries. How do you think this affects passenger anxiety, and what additional training do you undergo to address this?
The increased awareness, based on the recent NTSB data is a huge issue. We’ve been getting constant training on how to navigate the best possible situation of comfort and keeping the flight safe.We are required to refresh our flight and safety knowledge at least quarterly, including drills for managing passengers’ emotional states. We will also learn specific techniques, such as distraction, meditation and using an ice pack.
Speaking of techniques,the article discussed breathing exercises and meditation. Do you find these to be effective, and how do you incorporate them into your interactions with passengers?
Absolutely! I frequently enough suggest slow, deep breaths to passengers. Many airlines are now offering in-flight options. I also carry a small journal and pen to encourage passengers to begin writing down their worries, or to simply distract themselves with drawing, or even completing a crossword puzzle. These actions provide a welcome diversion for anxious flyers.
Distraction and reassurance, those are critical. The article also touched upon the idea of seat changes. Can you elaborate on the impact this can have on the passenger?
Yes. It provides huge results in passengers’ comfort. The area near the wings is generally perceived as more stable. So, seating options, or if the flight is not full, changing to a seat to eliminate turbulence is a huge factor. A flight attendant will always be aware, which allows them to provide the best solutions for the passengers.
That’s incredibly helpful.
Absolutely.
While all these tips are great, some might say they don’t address deeper anxieties. What would you say to someone battling high levels of flight anxiety stemming from other issues?
While our suggestions aim to provide immediate relief, our job is to ensure safety and give assistance. As flight attendants, we’re not therapists. I always recommend seeking support from a professional and also making a comfortable atmosphere on your journey by making use of a breathing exercise.
That’s sound and practical advice. For our readers, any final thoughts they might find useful when turbulence appears?
Know that you are not alone, and it is indeed very safe, especially when you think of the number of passengers who are flying nowadays. Being prepared is very helpful. Whether it’s your water bottle, your snacks, your favorite books or television shows, it gives you a sense of comfort. don’t hesitate to reach out. We are ther to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
Anya, thank you so much for sharing your insights. it’s incredibly reassuring to hear from a seasoned professional.
It was my pleasure.
that was Anya Sharma from AirHorizon Airlines, offering invaluable advice for navigating turbulent skies. Remember, the key takeaway is that you’re in safe hands with trained professionals. Have a safe flight!
