Scared of flying after recent plane accidents? Heres how experts say you can stay calm

Is yours soaring?Flight anxiety has taken off this year after a series of deadly collisions and scary incidents have occurred in the last few weeks.More planes are hitting the air than ever before, but the industry is lagging with filling shifts for airline staff and air traffic controllers.That along with several investigations into airplane malfunctions has some travelers worried about flying.A study published last year found that a staggering 49% of Gen Z, 39% of millennials, 38% of Gen X and 40% of baby boomers are afraid to take to the skies.

And it’s safe to assume those numbers have only increased in recent months.A study released Wednesday found that 64% of adults think flying is “very or somewhat safe,” compared to 71% in 2024.However, it should be noted that the majority of adults still believe it’s safe to board a plane.“Anxiety about flying can range from mild to severe,” licensed therapist Jenny Matthews, owner of Minnesota-based State of Mind Therapy, previously told Travel + Leisure.“If someone has mild anxiety symptoms, they may feel on edge about their flight or experience nausea, but they continue to travel by plane anyway.Others with more severe flight anxiety [might experience] significant anxiety symptoms like panic attacks, difficulty breathing, and intense fear, which may lead them to avoid flying completely.” To help passengers check their anxiety at the gate, here are some pro tips to help you have a calm flight.Traveling thousands of feet in the air is the safest form of transportation, experts say, including the National Safety Council.Commercial pilots must have an airline transport pilot certification, the highest possible aviation credential, Thomas Anthony, director of the USC Aviation Safety and Security Program, recently told the Los Angeles Times.

And all commercial aircraft are routinely inspected and maintained by the Federal Aviation Administration and directed to fly within a regulated air traffic control s...