Our editors share tips and tricks. ✈️
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| The summer season is upon us, which means flying somewhere for a vacation might be in your near future. If you’re spending the lead-up to your departure dreading the flight instead of being excited for the trip, know that you’re certainly not alone. People fear air travel for many reasons, including claustrophobia and feeling out of control. |
| Today, our team shares how we cope with flying anxiety in hopes of helping you feel more comfortable on your next flight. |
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Prepare for takeoff,
Morgan Mandriota
Engagement Editor, Healthline
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Written by Morgan Mandriota
June 6, 2025 • 4 min read |
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| How our team copes with the fear of flying |
| “I distract myself with music and books during flights (although it doesn't really prevent me from being anxious). And I try to remind myself that statistically flying is still the safest way to travel.” — Jill Campbell, content marketing editor
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| “I typically love flying! But my 19-year-old leads into every conversation about our trip, ‘If we don’t crash.’ I keep telling him, ‘No negative thoughts!’ That’s how I’m managing it — positive thoughts.” — Heidi Smith, coaching operations manager |
| “I distract myself with cozy video games, like Stardew Valley. Being able to focus on an in-game task or quest prevents me from spiraling!” — Sarah Choi, engagement editor |
| “Noise-cancelling headphones, breathing, and messaging loved ones when I'm about to take off so they know my flight information.” — Kristen Hom, photo editor |
| “I like to remind myself that turbulence for pilots is like driving over potholes for us! And that pilots want to make it home to their families just as much as we do.” — Victoria Torrez, senior influencer marketing manager |
| “Good music and a whole lot of prayers! If I feel especially nervous or stressed, I listen to a Calm app meditation called ‘Calming Flight Anxiety.’” — Adam Balderrama, senior technical project manager |
| “I distract myself with crossword puzzles or magazines I pick up at the airport.” — Megan Severs, senior editorial director |
| “I think of the tens of thousands of flights that don’t make the news each day because they land safely. I also try to sit by the window so I can look out during turbulence and realize the plane is still fine — and I can enjoy the beautiful scenery below.” — Chrissie Moore, editorial director |
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