You're not alone. More people than you think suffer from fear of flying, around 25% of travellers according to IATA (International Air Transport Association).
Takeoff, turbulences, strange sounds and landing are the most delicate moments for anyone who is not too fond of planes. Under these circumstances, staying calm and under control can be a bit hard.
Nevertheless, we don't want to let aerophobia stop us from living new adventures and visiting remote countries. That's why it's very important learning to control anxiety so we can enjoy the flight.
Since 2014 it is legal to use smartphones and tablets inside the cabin during the flight, a fact that might end up helping many to overcome their fear of cruising the skies. In recent years, several apps have been developed that intend to help the passenger feel safer during the flight.
We have tested 3 of them, very different from one another, and this is our verdict:
SkyGuru
Captain speaking! This app makes you feel as if you are sitting right next to the pilot, since it offers live information of whatever is happening in the aircraft.
Not coincidentally, it has been developed by a pilot who knows well how important it is to understand every movement, every noise... in order to control your nerves.
The only thing the user has to do is to introduce the flight number in the app (before getting on board while there is still internet connection). The app will automatically extract all the information of the route and the flight status extracting all the data from official sources.
The day of the trip, when setting the device to Airplane Mode, the app starts working and notifies the user with everything that happens in the plane. It connects real time information with the one gathered from different sources.
Including a compass and other elements like a microphone, the app is also able to explain certain noises and movements that the passenger might be feeling in the cabin.
SkyGuru offers a free version and a premium one, including additional features. Both are available for iOS.
Takeoff Mode
This is a free app (for iOS and Android) created by the Japanese airline ANA. The goal of Takeoff Mode is to entertain users with a fun game during takeoff, so they're distracted from the potentially stressful moment.
With such a large experience, the airline knew that the most tense moment for people suffering from fear of flying is takeoff. So they decided to create this game in which the user must introduce a ball in a hole by tilting the phone to the sides. You can check how it works in this video.
The game requires such focused concentration that you'll forget that you're in a plane. It also has a smooth and calm music that will help you relax.
Calm App
If games or information don't work, then it's time to try mindfulness and meditation. Relaxing body and mind helps controlling fear, nerves and negative thoughts.
This app, only available in English, includes different relaxation exercises. The most useful for a flight will be the "10 minutes express meditation" programs, which will guide you, adding nature sounds, to find the relaxation you're looking for.
If you suddenly feel nervous and your breathing becomes faster, the app helps you control the air that comes in and out of your lungs by showing you the proper rhythm of inhalations and exhalations.
Calm invites you to relax in your seat and forget about the hours you have ahead to get to your destination. With the help of the app, if you close your eyes and focus on the sound, you'll feel like you're in the middle of the woods or by the seaside.
It's available for Android and iOS.
Look for the system that fits you better so you can board the plane free of fears and concerns. Making your flight a highlight of your trip is, now more than ever, within arm's reach.
And now, enjoy your flight.
