Many people fly with a queasy feeling, and some do not fly at all. A fear of flying is very common and no sign of weakness. The good news is that it can be treated well. Often it helps just to understand what is happening on the plane.
Why flying is so safe
Statistically, the aeroplane is one of the safest ways to travel. The journey to the airport is more dangerous than the flight. Strict rules make sure of that. Aircraft are serviced regularly, and important systems are there twice or even three times over. Pilots practise emergencies again and again in the simulator.
An aircraft with two engines can keep flying safely on one and land. That is not a special case but a requirement for certification.
The noises on board
Unfamiliar noises frighten many people. Almost all of them are completely normal:
- Rumbling after take-off: the landing gear is retracting and its doors are closing.
- Engines getting quieter shortly after take-off: the pilots reduce take-off power. The plane does not sink because of it.
- Humming and whirring: the flaps on the wings are extended before landing.
- Loud roar after touchdown: the engines help to brake. That is intentional.
- A chime: a signal for the crew, often just an announcement or a call from the cockpit.
Understanding turbulence
Turbulence feels like driving down a bumpy country lane. For the aircraft it is harmless. It is built to withstand far greater forces than ever occur on a flight. Turbulence is only dangerous for people who are not buckled up. So keep your seat belt loosely fastened whenever you are seated, even when the sign is off.
What helps on the plane
- Breathe calmly. Breathe in slowly through your nose and out for longer through your mouth, about four seconds in and six out. It calms the body noticeably.
- Tense and relax your muscles. Tense your hands, arms, shoulders and legs one after another for a few seconds, then consciously let go.
- Distract yourself. An audiobook, a film or a crossword draws your attention away from every noise.
- Talk to the crew. Tell them when you board that you are nervous. Cabin crew see this every day and will gladly check on you more often.
- Go easy on coffee. Caffeine and alcohol make you more restless. Drink water instead.
Well prepared at the airport
Rushing makes the fear worse. Allow plenty of time, check in online and choose a seat over the wings. For many people a direct flight is easier than two short flights with a change, because there is only one take-off and one landing. The air is often calmer in the morning than in the afternoon.
When the fear is strong
If you sleep badly for days beforehand or avoid flying altogether, get help. Many airports offer courses for nervous flyers. They explain the technology, often with a visit to a flight simulator, and end with an accompanied flight. If you would like to take a course in English, ask the provider beforehand. For very strong fear, behavioural therapy helps. It is well researched, and many people fly relaxed again afterwards.
flug-123.de editorial team, updated 10 November 2026. We review our guides regularly. Rules can change. If in doubt, the details in your booking apply.
