Expert provides tips to overcome flight anxiety following Singapore Airlines turbulence incident

Fear of flying, also known as aviophobia or aerophobia, is a real phobia where people feel scared or anxious before, during, or after a flight. This fear is caused by negative and fearful thoughts about flying. To reduce flight anxiety, it's important to challenge these thoughts and change them. Learning about how flying works, flight safety, and weather can help challenge anxiety-provoking thoughts. Some people may experience physical discomfort like stomach cramps or nausea, and in severe cases, panic attacks. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step to managing anxiety during a flight. Experts suggest creating a relaxation plan, such as listening to guided meditation tracks for anxiety relief. Recently, a Singapore Airlines Boeing jet had to make an emergency landing in Bangkok due to severe turbulence, resulting in one passenger's death. Passengers described the chaotic scene and efforts to help those in need. The airline reported that some passengers and crew are receiving medical care in Bangkok. A pilot explained that the turbulence encountered on the flight is common in certain areas, like the intertropical convergence zone near the equator. He clarified that the descent into Bangkok was likely a controlled maneuver, not sudden turbulence.