Learn the statistics. Calm yourself by researching how safe planes actually are and how uncommon plane crashes are. In fact, your nerves should be relaxed when you realize that you are more likely to experience a catastrophic incident in a vehicle on the ground rather than high in the sky on an airplane.
Talk to people. If you have never been on an airplane before due to fear, speak with people that you trust who have. Ask a friend what his flying experience was like. Tell him to describe to you the experience, from take-off to landing. Your fears are less likely to overwhelm you if you have a clearer idea of what is going to happen while you're on the plane.
Prepare yourself. If you think that you will feel safer sitting on an aisle or window seat while on a plane, call the airline and request a seat. Some people feel less trapped on planes when they are able to look out the window or are able to walk up and down the aisles instead of being confined. Do what you have to do to make your flying experience more comfortable.
Distract yourself. When you are on an airplane, do not just sit there strapped in your seat thinking doomed and nervous thoughts. Focus on distracting yourself instead. Bring your iPod and listen to your favorite songs. Read an engaging book or magazine. Keep yourself occupied so you are not thinking (and worrying) so much.
Try to relax. Relaxation techniques can help you to overcoming flying fears. Concentrate on deep breathing while you're on a plane. Try progressive muscle relaxation, which involves alternating between relaxing and tensing up the muscles of your body, from your feet all the way up to the head and neck. Focus on easing the tension of your body.
Picture positive things. Instead of obsessing over being on an airplane, try to envision things that make you smile. If you are on the plane to visit relatives out of state, visualize the moment that you reunite with them and how much fun your trip will be. Instead of picturing worst case airplane scenarios, think about happy situations.
Do not pay attention to bad details. Inevitably, although extremely rare, plane disasters do occur. If you are preparing for a flight and see a news about a plane disaster, avoid graphic information and only watch in moderation. Do not bombard your brain with these details. Know when to stop listening.
