As recent high-profile air disasters reverberate around the globe—including January’s deadly U.S. plane crash, the worst in over two decades—more people than ever are wrestling with intense anxieties about flying. Psychologists, flight attendants, and industry experts are witnessing a sharp uptick in flight-related worries, with even seasoned travelers and aviation workers expressing unprecedented discomfort in the wake of recent events (AP News, National Geographic, MSU Denver RED, NY Post). For Thai travelers—many of whom journey by air within ASEAN and beyond for work, leisure, or pilgrimage—the resurgence of “fear of flying” (aviophobia) presents unique personal and cultural challenges.
The latest figures estimate that about 25 million adults in the U.S. alone struggle with significant flight anxiety (Stratos Jets), but experts say the global numbers are likely much higher, especially after recent safety scares and extensive media coverage. In fact, a 2025 survey shows only 64% of U.S. adults now see flying as “very or somewhat safe,” down from 71% just a year earlier (NY Post). These fears cut across demographics, with one study finding nearly half of Gen Z respondents admitting reluctance to take to the skies.
Why are these fears spiking? Aviation accidents, while statistically rare, receive outsized attention—each incident sticking in public memory. As Professor Chad Kendall of the Metropolitan State University of Denver points out, even though the worldwide accident rate remains “less than one per million flights,” the recent succession of crashes triggers deep-rooted anxieties (MSU Denver RED). Psychologists like Jennifer Dragonette, who specialize in air travel anxiety, note that even people previously unfazed by flying are now voicing concern in light of these incidents.
Understanding aviophobia, or fear of flying, is essential for effective management. “For many people, it’s not so much a fear of crashing as it is claustrophobic feelings in an enclosed metal cabin, and a sense of having no control,” says Dr. David Carbonell, a clinical psychologist and author who developed therapeutic programs for aviation anxiety. Dr. Randi Smith, a professor of psychological sciences, adds, “Flying is one of the most common phobias. It’s the anticipation—making reservations in advance, waiting in airports, all that time for anxiety to build up." The experience of turbulence, takeoff, or even simply being “locked” in the plane can trigger overwhelming sensations of panic.
Individual experiences vary greatly. Adelynn Campbell, a coffee shop manager in San Diego, describes her last flight: “It ended with a panic attack that I got through largely with the help of a kind flight attendant.” For Campbell, who is transgender and already faces anxieties about treatment at security and during travel, the fear is rooted in feeling “trapped and unable to breathe” rather than in the mechanics of flight itself (AP News).
For milder forms of anxiety, practical calming techniques can make a significant difference. Experts recommend:
- Breathwork: Slow, deep breathing with longer exhales can activate the body’s relaxation response. “You have more control over your chemistry than you realize,” explains neuroscientist Dr. Brian Ramos (National Geographic). “Flip a switch and bring awareness to your parasympathetic nervous system.”
- Sensory Regulation: The “5-4-3-2-1” method—identifying five things you can see, four to touch, three to hear, two to smell, and one to taste—can ground you in the moment.
- Cooling the Body: Using a cold drink on your forehead or neck helps the body shift away from the adrenaline-fueled “fight-or-flight” state.
- Physical Comfort: Weighted blankets, scalp massages, or gentle touch from a companion can help maximize grounding.
- Distraction: Watching movies, listening to music, or engaging in absorbing activities during takeoff, landing, or turbulence periods can help divert your focus away from distressing thoughts.
Mentally, acknowledging and labeling your anxiety is effective. Research published in the journal PLOS One shows that putting feelings into words lowers anxiety (NY Post). Additionally, making a list of pleasant activities to look forward to after landing, visualizing your reactions to anxiety, and speaking openly to travel companions or flight attendants can lighten the emotional load.
Therapeutic interventions have proven success for more severe cases. Exposure therapy (gradual desensitization to flying-related stimuli) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are widely regarded as the gold standards for phobia treatment (Stratos Jets). Dr. Carbonell recommends “practice flights” not tied to work or obligation and keeping a symptom journal to reinforce acceptance.
When professional therapy is not accessible—an issue still common in Thailand, where mental health stigma and limited counseling services persist—self-help strategies such as regulated breathwork, grounding exercises, and seeking compassionate assistance from airline staff are invaluable. Importantly, experts caution against self-medicating with alcohol or drugs, as these can worsen symptoms in the long run.
For Thai readers, cultural beliefs about fate (“กรรม”) and control may inform the experience of flight anxiety. Thai society’s strong spiritual and communal traditions may offer helpful coping resources, such as merit-making (ทำบุญ), meditation, or sharing concerns with monks or family. Yet, as more Thai people travel for work, study, or pilgrimage—like attending big Buddhist ceremonies or traveling for Songkran—flight anxiety can pose a significant barrier.
Historically, air travel in Thailand has been perceived as both a status symbol and a convenience, with the rapid growth in domestic and international flights creating more opportunities but also increased exposure to news about aviation incidents. The psychological distance between the safety statistics (air travel remains the safest mode of transport) and the emotional intensity of rare disasters is echoed in Thai proverbs like “กลัวแล้วกล้า อีกคราไปใหม่” (To fear but to try again is bravery). Even so, the potential for disruption to family events or religious journeys means the effects of aviophobia extend beyond individual distress to broader community impacts.
Looking forward, experts predict that anxiety will ebb as the memory of recent incidents fades and as airlines step up passenger care. Enhanced in-flight mental health support, airline-sponsored relaxation workshops, and virtual reality-based therapy are on the rise globally. In Thailand, where digital mental health innovations like teletherapy are gaining ground, adapting successful international models to local context is essential.
So what’s an actionable plan for Thai travelers? First, acknowledge that flight anxiety is common and not a sign of weakness. Prepare for your next trip by practicing calming techniques—try ทบทวนลมหายใจ (breathing meditation), keep comforting items in your carry-on, and notify airline staff if you start to feel unwell. Consider confiding your fears to a travel companion or a knowledgeable monk. If anxiety prevents you from flying, talk to a mental health professional; many Thai clinics and hospitals now offer supportive counseling. Lastly, remember that your courage (“กล้า” glaa) to fly may inspire others—ripple effects that can help normalize the conversation around aviation anxiety in Thai society.
In summary, as global travel rebounds and Thais take to the skies for family, festivals, work, and self-discovery, the renewed spotlight on flight anxiety should be met with compassion, evidence-based techniques, and community support. Let’s spread the word: กลัวแล้วกล้า อีกคราไปใหม่—bravery isn’t the absence of fear, but the willingness to try again.
Sources: AP News, Stratos Jets, National Geographic, MSU Denver RED, NY Post