1. Overview
This article provides insights into managing flight anxiety through effective tools and apps. It highlights user experiences and expert advice to help travelers feel more at ease during flights.
Many individuals, including professional travel writers, experience flight anxiety. Regular travel for work does not equate to being a confident flyer. Thankfully, I discovered a highly effective and easy-to-use app that alleviates my nerves before takeoff, and the best part is, it’s entirely free.
It may seem surprising that someone who travels extensively is not an ideal flyer, but like approximately 40 percent of the American population, I too experience jitters before a flight. I’ve tried various methods to manage my anxiety, such as meditation, breathing exercises, and even consulting a pilot. However, one practice that has consistently helped me is checking turbulence forecasts before flying using the Flying Calmly app.
The app allows users to input their flight information easily. They can access turbulence forecasts up to 24 hours in advance, and the app will send notifications if there are any updates to the forecast.
Upon entering flight details, the app displays a graph showing the anticipated turbulence during the journey. As stated on its App Store page, “Our reports are based on publicly available weather data and indicate how strong the expected disturbances are and the likelihood of their occurrence.” It also conveys an important note: “Please remember that weather forecasts are not invariably 100 percent accurate. Always follow the instructions of the cabin crew during your flight.”
Many users have reported positive experiences with the app. One individual remarked, “It makes me feel like I’m in just a little more control, which is what everyone in this context wants.” Another nervous flyer stated, “I love this app as it helps me relax before flying. Without it, I find it very difficult to fly and have severe anxiety. I hope it remains online for a long time.”
Additionally, Flying Calmly is not the only tool available to manage flight anxiety. Another similar option is Turbcast, which provides turbulence forecasts and explanations of turbulence causes to help alleviate fears. This app is available for $1.99 in the App Store.
For those seeking comprehensive resources, Soar offers lessons on overcoming flight fears, turbulence forecasts, and a G-force reader to help users recognize that rough skies are manageable. The basic features are free, while detailed reports can be obtained through a paid plan.
Lastly, users can explore Turbli, another free option that provides turbulence forecasts and wind reports in relation to flight times.
In addition to utilizing these apps, it’s crucial to understand that modern airplanes are designed to handle severe turbulence, which is highly unlikely to cause any danger. As noted by pilot Patrick Smith on his website AskThePilot.com, “A plane cannot be flipped upside-down, thrown into a tailspin, or otherwise flung from the sky by even the mightiest gust or air pocket. Conditions might be annoying and uncomfortable, but the plane is not going to crash.”
Addressing flight anxiety is essential for a stress-free travel experience. By employing tools like apps and understanding the realities of air travel, fliers can enjoy their journeys more comfortably.
