I'm scared of flying, can it be fixed?
Many people find a fear of flying becomes much easier to live with, so that flying feels calmer and more manageable. It is not a switch that gets flipped, and nobody can promise you will love it. A therapist helps you understand what your fear is really about and practise feeling settled, step by step. If your fear is severe or tied up with wider anxiety, it is worth a word with your GP too.
What is going on when flying scares you
A fear of flying is very common, and it rarely has one cause. For some people it is about not being in control. For others it is closed spaces, heights, noise and bumps, or a general worry that spills over on the day. Your body reacts as if there is danger, with a racing heart, tight chest and busy thoughts, and the fear can build for weeks before a trip. The good news is that a fear learned over time can often be softened over time as well.
Who can help, and how
- Hypnotherapists. Guide you into a deeply relaxed state and use calm imagery and suggestion to rehearse the journey, from the airport to take-off, feeling steady rather than alarmed.
- Counsellors. Give you time to talk about where the fear comes from, especially if it began after a bad flight, a loss or a time of stress.
- Coaches. Help with the practical side: planning the trip, small steps towards booking, and what to do on the day.
Many airlines also run fear of flying courses led by pilots and psychologists. They can be a good addition, because they explain how planes work.
Try something tonight
Want to begin before you book anyone? A self-guided relaxation recording lets you practise settling your body tonight, ready for the next flight.
Relaxation recordings are not medical treatment. Please only listen somewhere safe where you can relax, never while driving.
Or see someone: find hypnotherapists near you
3213 hypnotherapists in the Practitioner directory, each with a phone number. Pick your town:
Or by what you would like help with: fears and phobias · Also: counsellors · Also: coaches
What happens in a session
You start with a chat about when the fear began, what you picture, and what you would like to be different, such as taking a family holiday. Your practitioner then teaches you ways to slow your breathing and relax your body. In hypnotherapy you are guided to relax and imagine each stage of a flight, staying aware throughout, and you can stop whenever you like. You usually leave with something to practise at home, and sometimes a recording to use before and during a trip.
How many sessions will I need?
It varies. Many people have around three to six sessions, and some want a booster close to a flight. If you have a trip booked, tell your practitioner at the start so you can plan the timing together. It is fair to ask at the first chat how many sessions they would expect.
Roughly what does it cost?
Private hypnotherapy, counselling or coaching in the UK is commonly from £50 a session, and often more in big cities. Some practitioners offer a free first chat or a package price for a short block. Check the length of a session and the cancellation terms before you book.
When to check with your GP first
Please see your GP if your fear comes with panic attacks, chest pain or breathlessness that has not been checked, if it affects daily life beyond flying, or if you are under a mental health team. If chest pain is severe, comes on suddenly or does not ease, call 999 straight away. The NHS can offer talking therapies for phobias, and many people use private support alongside that. Do not stop or change any medication, including anything prescribed to help with flying, without speaking to your doctor. A good practitioner will tell you if another route is better first.
Who it might not suit
If you want a quick fix with no practice, this may feel frustrating, because results usually come from repeating the calming skills. If the fear is part of a wider struggle with anxiety, counselling or NHS talking therapy may be the better first step.
More questions
Can hypnotherapy really help with fear of flying?
Many people find it helps them feel calmer about flying, because they rehearse the journey while deeply relaxed. It works best with some practice at home between sessions.
Do I have to get on a plane to get better?
Not at first. Most practitioners work in small steps, starting with thoughts and pictures. Many people find that taking a real flight when they feel ready helps the progress stick.
What if I panic on the plane?
Your practitioner can teach you breathing and grounding techniques to use in your seat. Having a plan for the moment fear rises often makes it feel less frightening.
Can I have sessions online?
Yes. Many people find video sessions work well because they can relax at home. You can also listen to recordings on the day of your trip.
Is a fear of flying a phobia?
It can be, if the fear is strong and gets in the way of what you want to do. Whatever it is called, support is available and many people find it helps.