The Not So Fun Part of Flying…

The other day, I was on a flight from Chicago to Denver, and I have to admit, it was probably one of the worst flights in my entire life.

Thanks to GoGo inflight wifi, I fired off this status update on Facebook about 20 minutes after take off:

This darn plane is shaking like seizure up here! Probably the worst turbulence I’ve ever experienced, and that’s saying something. Even worse, the flight path has us flying right into a storm, it seems. Someone get me a few more gin and tonics, stat.

It only got worse as we continued to both climb and descend, in an attempt to avoid the turbulence.

This bronco is out of control up here and I hope the cowboy up top knows what the hell he’s doing. This rodeo needs to end NOW. Call in the clowns! I feel like I’m on Thunder Mountain at Disney World, however the ride hasn’t stopped yet…I hope the Red Baron is piloting this damn thing! I’m a 100,000 mile a year flyer, and this has got to be the worst flight EVER. The funny part? The Captain has told the FAs to sit down and buckle up, and there’s this one spunky new hire who is refilling drinks and warm nuts up here in First. You go kid!

I was legitimately scared sh*tless. Seriously. It made me stop, for a moment though. As a 100,000 mile a year flyer, some severe turbulence is in store somewhere, and despite the aviation industry being one of the safest there is (safer than driving a car, in fact), you can’t help but worry sometimes. I’m constantly reminded of the fears of flying in several Facebook groups I belong to, where passengers and crew alike sometimes chime in amount a “treacherous” flight they experienced. While I know there’s very little chance of something happening, sometimes that fear is still in the back of your mind, and brought forward when the Captain tells the FAs to be seated for the duration of the flight.

The flight crews on this particular flight were incredibly professional, which I’d like to note. It’s always comforting knowing you have a good cockpit and cabin team during rough air.

However, while turbulence may be completely unavoidable, there are certain steps you can take to help make the experience less nerve-wracking when it does occur. 

1. Take a deep breath, and ensure that you listen to all advice from the cockpit and cabin team. For example, you may be instructed to put on your seat belt. Following orders not only keeps you safe but can help alleviate nerves.
2. Find ways to distract yourself. For example, you could read a book or talk to the person sitting next to you. This gives you something to focus on (aside from what is happening around you) and, as a result, helps alleviate feelings of anxiety. 
3. Remember that turbulence occurs naturally and is not usually an indication of greater danger. You are completely safe. 
4. Remember why you got on the plane in the first place – reminding yourself of all the joys that travel brings. Whether you are set on visiting some of the top Nashville attractions or catching up with friends – a little discomfort now is going to provide you with a lot of joy further down the line. 
5. Practice meditation or breathing exercises that can reduce stress and anxiety, helping you remain calm.