Fear of Heights or Enclosed Places

Many people who are afraid of flying are afraid of flying because they suffer from claustrophobia, the fear of enclosed spaces, or from acrophobia, the fear of heights. You may have this one or both of these fears and this might prevent you from getting onto an airplane.

Firstly, you're not unusual for having these fears. Millions of people all over the world fear enclosed spaces, heights or both. These fears usually result in actions of panic which could disturb people on board. However, there are steps you can take to help you fly comfortably.

If you have claustrophobia, you are afraid of flying because you feel that the airplane is an enclosed place and you're going to have difficulty getting off if you wanted to and when you wanted to. Well, the truth is that airplanes are not enclosed spaces.

Air from the outside does enter the airplane. It does that through the air conditioning packs, this air is then mixed with recirculated air from the cabin and then fed through the vents for your comfort. The main doors and overwing exits are not able to be opened in flight due to the massive pressure on them. Even the strongest man in the world would not be able to open them in flight.

If you feel trapped get up out of your seat and take a walk in the cabin....it's quite a large area when you explore it.

If you suffer from acrophobia, the best thing for you to do is to avoid sitting next to the window and looking out. Looking out the window and thinking about what would happen if the plane suddenly let you go will make your flying an unpleasant experience. Don't sit next to the window and avoid thinking about that.

If it makes you feel any better I am not comfortable up a tall ladder, but I feel very safe in the airplane with the structure around me.

Distract yourself with a book or movie and forget that the plane is up in the sky.

Another great thing you could do is plan or think about the flight before you get on the airplane. Thinking about it might make you comfortable since your brain will be expecting the flight. You might also want to talk to a counselor or read helpful books before your flight so your body is ready for the flight. This is whether you suffer from acrophobia or claustrophobia.

The best thing you can do for yourself regardless of what phobia you have is to fight it. Your phobia will always disturb you if you don't combat it. You might want to seek medical help if your phobia is severe. In the end, you'll be able to fly without fear.