Please need Help .. Dead Terrified of Flying [Archive] - Taking Flight

godfearingindian

01-17-2011, 01:23 PM

Hi

I am 31 year old and this is my first kind of attempt after reading comments from the experts in this forum to let out the honest feelings about state of my mind i am in right now.

Trust me i am writing and i am :cry: at same time .

Sir, I hail from India and even thought of flying just makes me go blank .

Currently i am in SFO and took 2 flights from Delhi to SFO via Dubai.

and for my nearly 48 hours of flight to US, I had only slept for 1 hour.All the bad things that can happen simply did n't left me for a moment throughout the flight.Although my two Emirates flights were event less and smooth I would simply go white even the plane would be passing through negligible turbulence
I dread flying so much that always this feeling that i would never see my family again if i board a aircraft.

I have a very young family with a 3 year old boy and few weeks old daughter and during the flight i would simply can't stop thinking about what would happen to them if some thing goes wrong as i also lost my father at pretty young age.

I am on business trip in US for few days and i am only thinking about one thing that whether i would be able to see my kids again and am wondering that whether i would be able to do my job for which i am here .

I am so stressed out right now that i am simply scrolling through anything that i can find on web that i feel can help.But honestly more i read more questions pop into my mind.

Sir i would be flying back via emirates flight {777-300 ER} over north pole. How safe is flying over this route.?How good is the aircraft?

For such a long duration say while midway over north pole. If there is a engine failure then do we have a chance?

Sir, how safe is Boeing 777-200 aircraft? Any Tips - medication to stay calm.

Please help this troubled soul

Barb-SAN

01-17-2011, 02:40 PM

Hi, and :welcome2: and Welcome to California!
Is this your first trip to the U.S.? I sincerely hope that you will have a chance to SLEEP in a comfortable bed as soon as possible. Going 48 hrs. with only 1 hr. of sleep, plus coping with jet lag, (and fear of flying), makes everything seem more difficult. Are you able to do a bit of exercise too? A long walk in the fresh air can do a great deal to improve one's mood.

It's certainly understandable that you would be anxious being so far away from your family. I assume since you are here on business, that long-distance travel is one of the costs of advancing in your career, and that it will benefit your children in the long run. Do you have the ability to Skype and "see" your family every day while you are here working? That might be reassuring.

I'll leave it to some of the others to address your questions about flying over the N.Pole and the 777 (though short answer, both are fine).

Please feel free to read through some of the posts on this forum, and see how others have dealt with the same types of fears.

aerobat

01-17-2011, 07:11 PM

Hi, godfearingindian, and welcome!! :welcome:. I hope you'll have time during your stay in San Francisco to relax, to see some famous landmarks, get your toes in the sand at the beach at Golden Gate Park, enjoy some good seafood, and get some exercise. All of these things help put us back in our bodies and better ground us in reality.

I hope, too, that you'll have time to search through the archives here so you can begin to understand that your fear of flying is in no way unique--that most of us have experienced exactly what you describe, and to the same terrifying, paralyzing, and obsessive degree. The point is not that we are all equally hopelessly miserable:(, but rather that with the right kinds of knowledge, effort and support, lots of people are able to overcome this fear, or at least make huge progress in becoming more comfortable with flying.

I agree with Barb that there is absolutely no increased risk (and it's an infinitesimally small risk to begin with) in flying over the pole. These great-circle routes are chosen to shorten flying time between continents, and my guess is that for almost any position along that route at cruise altitude, there is a major airport that could be reached in an emergency.

But stop right here. I'm betting the word emergency is setting off alarms in your head, getting your heart rate up, making your palms clammy and filling your imagination with scenarios of disaster. So right here is where the real work must be done.

You've probably noted that we regularly recommend a good long visit to this site:

http://www.anxieties.com

And that is what I will ask you to do now, or as soon as you have an hour or so to commit. The last territory we tend to investigate in wrestling this demon tends to be the very territory in which we should immerse ourselves: a good anxiety education. The key to beating the fear is not loading ourselves up with aviation statistics or authoritative reassurances about this or that remote risk. Do we do that before getting in our cars and driving in traffic, taking along with us our precious small children? Usually not, because we just assume that if we have a safe, reliable car and are careful drivers, then the risk is small enough to be acceptable. In that acceptance we have done something physiologically that we are not even aware of: we have turned off the adrenaline. Or kept it at a small, manageable level. That is our task in managing and overcoming a fear of flying.

Please check out the anxieties.com site and post here as often as you can. We will help you face these flights back home with courage and confidence, and to take a big step toward becoming a more comfortable air traveler. With perseverance and determination, you can do this, even in a few days. :thumbsup:

Please let us know also when you are flying home.

godfearingindian

01-18-2011, 04:35 PM

Barb-San , Aerobat

Thanks for the Kind and soothing words, It was really comforting to see that somebody is there.

I did went through the Anxieties.com . I would be honest it did comforted me a bit . What i am trying to do is read it again and again so that i can stabilize my self.

But truly i am in Gloomy mood most of the time , just trying hard to fight the negative thoughts that i feel have conquered my mind for now. But i am trying hard to engage myself in other activities so that i can be occupied.

Sleep has eluded me for the moment. Honestly most of the time i feel like "I can not take this anymore " or simply want to run away or cry loudly.

It is my first visit to United states, i was excited but all of it was lost in air when i boarded the flight.

Aerobat i would be flying back on 29th Jan 2011 from SFO to Dubai . It is 16 hour long Journey and merly the thought of it is killing. and then i would be boarding Dubai to Delhi on 31st and would be landing on delhi on 31st itself .

Aerobat as you told that the route taken by the flight is primaril due to have an airport in case their is emergency.

But this flight flies 5 hours over water{north Pole}. What are the chances that Things like Engine failure could occur over north pole . So can 777-300 ER fly 2-3 hours on a single engine till it reaches .

for such a long flights exactly how does airlines prepare the logistics . Because what i have read here and that had soothed me a bit that Air transport is the safest way . But still accidents do occur and the problem is that on certain factors there is no control once you are airborne like there is a great chance that you can face bad weather in such a long flight or some thing unexpected like Air France incident the flight was in air for 7 hours and then without any warning it just crashed?

How safe is 777-300 ER . and what about 777-200 {I would be boarding this Aircraft from Dubai to Delhi} , I have read some where that Airbus aircrafts are not so good , Risk involved is more . Is it true.

and most importantly i learnt that their is medication available to help you during flight some medicine called Xalanx. Can i get this medicine easily in United states i mean without seeing any doctor. Is it safe.

Again you guys are helping me alot . Please accept my honest gratitude for your words.

Barb-SAN

01-18-2011, 04:48 PM

Hi godfearingindian, glad to see you back here, and that you are finding it helpful to read at www.anxieties.com (http://www.anxieties.com). Did you see his section with information on medications? It's here:
http://www.anxieties.com/med-intro.php

We're not doctors here at Taking Flight...just regular people who have also been dealing with anxiety and fear of flying. So we can't give you medical advice...i.e. "is it safe" FOR YOU?
The medication you are talking about is Xanax, it is available legally in the U.S. only by Dr. prescription. If you read more posts here, you will see that some people have used it at first (while working on overcoming their fears) for helping them stay calmer on the plane. Others have had negative experiences, don't like how it makes them feel, and have chosen to use other methods to cope with their fears.

I personally think, from your questions, that EDUCATION is a solution for at least part of your fears (e.g. about the planes, the route over the N.Pole, etc.) And also using "natural" methods to decrease your anxiety, proper breathing, exercise (if you can), relaxation exercises, self-talk, etc. have less risks than medications (which can affect everyone differently.)

Um, "cry loudly" is O.K. too, and is a release of tension (though perhaps safer to do in your hotel room rather than during a business meeting. ;))

Hang in there...you will feel better once you get over jet lag and can get some sleep.

Oh, also, is this your first flight, or your first LONG flight, first time away from your family? Everyone can get a bit homesick being away from "home". Perhaps you can find an Indian restaurant in San Francisco?

godfearingindian

01-18-2011, 05:15 PM

Barb-SAN

01-18-2011, 05:33 PM

Yes Barb -San

Thanks for your prompt reply and yes this is my first Flight to US or Long flight. I have been away from home number of times

But yeah not too far away as in US, More then i missing my family it is feeling of not seeing them due to flight fear is what is the main problem with me right now
Is there something you can do that would help with that feeling right now? Call them, or use Skype, so you can actually see them?
What you are feeling is not unusual. I know it's a very sad feeling, I have felt that way many times in my life when separated from people I care about. But remember that as sad as you feel now, will be as joyful as you will feel to see your family again when you return to India.

Also, one of your jobs as a parent is to teach your children to be brave in life. What you are learning now about coping with a very big experience, will help you help them face their fears as they are growing up.

I don't really know what else to suggest...maybe just focus on the work you have to do here so that you do the best job possible. I've heard that it helps to get outside in the sunshine a bit when you are trying to adjust to jet lag. How many hours is the time change for you? A rule of thumb is that it can take about 1 day for every hour of time change to completely adjust to jet lag. So your body & mind may feel "off" for a few days. Just remember this is "normal", and try not to stress too much over how you feel, and know that it will pass. :hug:

Do you do Yoga? It's something that I've found very calming and helpful. I think there are many yoga studios in San Francisco.

Barb-SAN

01-18-2011, 05:43 PM

Here's a link for more information on jet lag:
http://www.medicinenet.com/jet_lag/article.htm
It's pretty interesting; note Besides fatigue and insomnia, a jet lag sufferer may experience anxiety (http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=42985), constipation (http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=331), diarrhea (http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=1900), confusion, dehydration (http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=339), headache (http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=20628), irritability, nausea (http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=41943), sweating, coordination problems, and even memory loss.
There are a number of tips at that link to help you get over jet lag. :thumbsup:

godfearingindian

01-18-2011, 05:48 PM

Is there something you can do that would help with that feeling right now? Call them, or use Skype, so you can actually see them?
What you are feeling is not unusual. I know it's a very sad feeling, I have felt that way many times in my life when separated from people I care about. But remember that as sad as you feel now, will be as joyful as you will feel to see your family again when you return to India.

Also, one of your jobs as a parent is to teach your children to be brave in life. What you are learning now about coping with a very big experience, will help you help them face their fears as they are growing up.

I don't really know what else to suggest...maybe just focus on the work you have to do here so that you do the best job possible. I've heard that it helps to get outside in the sunshine a bit when you are trying to adjust to jet lag. How many hours is the time change for you? A rule of thumb is that it can take about 1 day for every hour of time change to completely adjust to jet lag. So your body & mind may feel "off" for a few days. Just remember this is "normal", and try not to stress too much over how you feel, and know that it will pass. :hug:

Do you do Yoga? It's something that I've found very calming and helpful. I think there are many yoga studios in San Francisco.

Again Thanks for Kind words .. I will try to do things yo have mentioned

MathFox

01-18-2011, 06:21 PM

Hi, :welcome:

I'll put my engineering hat back on (thought I would be relaxing at home this evening:cool:).

Well, the basics of planes: Without engines, a fixed wing plane becomes a glider plane. An airliner becomes a big and expensive glider and when an airport is within reach the pilots get one chance of making a soft landing. (For a plane flying at ~10 km altitude, the airport would have to be within 100 km or so; jets make fairly good gliders.)

All twin engine airliners can fly on a single engine, in fact the manufacturer of the plane has to demonstrate that it can safely take off, fly and return to the airport on a single engine. There is sufficient power in a single engine to keep your 777 in the air for hours and hours.

About the 777 in particular: Boeing designed the plane for (extreme) long haul flights and had the so-called "ETOPS-180" certification as goal. ETOPS-180 means that the FAA (and worldwide aviation authorities) deem the 777 safe for passenger flights up to 180 minutes (3 hours) from the nearest airport. Currently the 777s are certified for flights 207 minutes away from an airport.

As statistics are gathered, the 777 shows to be one of the safest planes ever, no passenger or crew was killed in any of its very rare accidents. There are over 900 planes in service currently, flying every day and only 7 serious incidents since the introduction of the plane 17 years ago.

aerobat

01-18-2011, 07:20 PM

I did went through the Anxieties.com . I would be honest it did comforted me a bit . What i am trying to do is read it again and again so that i can stabilize my self.

But truly i am in Gloomy mood most of the time , just trying hard to fight the negative thoughts that i feel have conquered my mind for now. But i am trying hard to engage myself in other activities so that i can be occupied.

It's great that you are soaking up this material and that you find some comfort in it. But the real progress comes in committing to some of the exercises and sticking with them. From what you say above, I'd like to suggest that you try this combination of exercises:

(1) Thought-stopping (with the rubber band)
(2) Postponement
(3) Worry Time

And after you get a bit of result from thought-stopping--even for a few seconds--try plugging in an immediate positive statement about your flight. Be specific, as in "the engines are completely reliable", or "I trust these pilots", or "turbulence is not a problem".

Aerobat i would be flying back on 29th Jan 2011 from SFO to Dubai . It is 16 hour long Journey and merly the thought of it is killing. and then i would be boarding Dubai to Delhi on 31st and would be landing on delhi on 31st itself .

Aerobat as you told that the route taken by the flight is primaril due to have an airport in case their is emergency.

But this flight flies 5 hours over water{north Pole}. What are the chances that Things like Engine failure could occur over north pole . So can 777-300 ER fly 2-3 hours on a single engine till it reaches .

The route is taken primarily to get from A to B in the shortest amount of time. :)

Hopefully Captain Hutch will jump in to supplement MathFox's excellent points. I'm on the phone with him right now, as a matter of fact.

Captain Hutch

01-18-2011, 08:13 PM

Hi Godfearingindian,

Thank you for bringing your questions here--I think you have a very able group of people that can provide some help for you. I think you can be assured that the Boeing 777 is one of the safest aircraft in operation today with the best trained pilots. Remember too, most of the crew members have their own families at home to which they look forward to returning to, so they will keep your flight as safe as possible.

Once again, welcome!

Hutch :tiphat:

godfearingindian

01-18-2011, 09:01 PM

Thank you every one.

Mathfox, Captain Hutch .. Your comments are comforting
indeed

Captain so what ever you have said about 777 is that true for
all versions i mean 300-ER and 200.?

I believe the problem of icing which resulted in 777 'sboth
engine ceasure at heathrow in 2008 must have been resolved
by now.

One more question what is the life of a 777 engine. i am asking this because for Emirates 777-200 emirates webpage says they are phasing out 777-200 's from Feb 2011. So does that mean these plans are nearing there life span . Is that matter of concern

MathFox

01-18-2011, 10:03 PM

Some airlines have the policy to replace their planes early, like after 20 years; other airlines fly their planes longer... Here is a blog post (http://crankyflier.com/2011/01/18/delta-retires-the-northwest-compass/) about Delta retiring some (ex-NW) DC-9s after more than 40 years of service. A well maintained plane will fly safely for 50 years or longer, but at a certain time it becomes less economical to fly it: Newer planes use less fuel (more economical engines, better aerodynamics).

I don't think a 20 year old airliner will have its original engines; the engines are overhauled at specified intervals (removed from the wings and shipped back to the manufacturer), replacement engines are mounted. Engines can go through several overhaul cycles and get all their parts replaced over time.

Looking at the statistics: I have too few accidents to say anything relevant about the relative safety of the 777 models. I can only say that all 777 models compare good to the other plane designs out there.

godfearingindian

01-21-2011, 12:56 PM

Hello Mathfox and all

Your thoughts have indeed comforted me alot, Atleast i am trying to fight my anxiety to overcome the fear.

Aerobat your quote to land me safe home with your help helps me indeed

It was a 24 hour feeling when i landed here , But now it is mostly the mornings when i am most depressed. I try to tell myself that listen to what you guys are telling me, but then again the thought that it could be your flight just creates the panic

Mathfox , what about aircraft {777} capability to land on rainy strip or rainy weather . Can it handle it .

What is the concern for pilots when they fly through rain or thick clouds

Most of the time i have learnt that 1 person or 2 person are killed when planes do make emergency landings with few injuries .What is the safest place in airplane to have a seat.

Also suppose in case of extreme emergency if their is no airport near by then what are the chances of survival of aircraft structure is the Plane has to land on say forest land or water.

Also what about the 777 ability or pilots training to land the flight on flat bed in case of landing gear failure,

For Planes flying long flights are the chances more for any mechanical failure then flights on shorter routes

and i believe surely the problem that caused heathrow incident must have been resolved for all the 900 777 planes worldwide

I know i am asking lot of questions here but trust me these are very few for what answer myself ever day just wishing every thing goes right .

Trust me guys every question You answer just give some fresh air

Barb-SAN

01-21-2011, 02:11 PM

It was a 24 hour feeling when i landed here , But now it is mostly the mornings when i am most depressed. I try to tell myself that listen to what you guys are telling me, but then again the thought that it could be your flight just creates the panic
Hey, godfearingindian, :wave:
Glad to see that you are doing better. I hope this means that you are getting some sleep at last, and that your body is adjusting to the time change and new location.

Have you had a chance to see any of the tourist sites of San Francisco? Taken a ride on the cable cars? Visited Fisherman's Wharf? We are having gorgeous sunny weather here in S.California, and I see that you have great weather forecast for San Francisco for the next 10 days as well. I hope that you will have a chance to get outside and enjoy some of that sunshine when you aren't at work. Did you bring a camera to take pictures, so that you can show your family back in India all that you experienced while you were here?

I'll leave it to some of the others to answer your specific questions about the 777. I understand your worries, as I'm a worrier too. I need to remind myself frequently to pay attention to the PRESENT, and not miss what's happening right now because I'm too preoccupied with what MIGHT HAPPEN tomorrow, or next week, or next year.

Do keep us posted, and it's very encouraging that you are feeling better. :)

godfearingindian

01-21-2011, 05:09 PM

Thanks Barb San

I do Manage to take some sleep , but honestly not a peaceful one . I believe that would be when i reach back home

I do plan to go to tourists places in SFO this weekend and see that if it helps.

aerobat

01-21-2011, 05:52 PM

Hopefully Hutch will stop by with some more answers for you. I just want to remind you that what you really ought to be doing to feel better is to stop wallowing in all these questions!! :) Rather, focus on all the positives, including the overwhelming likelihood that you will get home safely, knowing more about the world and about yourself, and having expanded your comfort zone.

BUT...I don't mean that as a request to stop asking questions, because we have all been where you are and done exactly what you are doing. We also know that the questions never end. When one or ten of them are answered, ten more will usually take their place. It's called "free-floating anxiety", and just like some pesky insect, when we wave it off one perch it will find another and another.

So...the fix is to get out the metaphorical fly-swatter. :dragonsla

That you are feeling somewhat better is a very good sign. If answers to your questions really do help then by all means, get answers...but please be aware of the anxiety processes that are actually driving your fear. When we have a phobia of flying, one of its messages is that the fear is keeping us safe. But that is not true. The fear is engaged in its own self-preservation; it's a neurochemical loop, and our task--in order to make wise choices about acceptable risk--is to break the loop. That's why we use all these techniques and tools.

If you've reclaimed a big chunk of your day from the fear and it's now only the mornings where you suffer, please trust that as a sign that your feelings about flying are changing under the surface. The proof of this should be a flight home which is more comfortable than expected; this is how it works! :tongue:

Captain Hutch

01-22-2011, 12:27 AM

Hi GodfearingIndian,

In an emergency when a pilot needs a place to land and there are no airports within reach he will look for a flat surface, like a field, highway, or waterway. Chances are excellent for a fully successful outcome--witness USAirways flight 1549 two years ago. Pilots are taught from the very beginning of their training to be aware of their surroundings and to always have an alternate plan.

Modern jet aircraft are designed with multiple stopping devices so that they can stop with plenty of a safety margin on a rainy runway. Multiple safety devices are the spoilers (speed brakes, sometimes called air brakes--using alternate hydraulics for back-up), reverse thrusters, anti-skid braking (with multiple back-ups), and special tires to lower the chances of hydroplaning. Before each landing the pilot must verify or calculate his landing distance even without all these systems being operational.

I don't know if there are any statistics for mechanical failures on long vs short flights--probably about the same depending on how you define those terms--and extremely miniscule.

I am sure that the fix for the B777 accident at Heathrow 3 years ago has been determined and made sure not to happen again.

The pilot uses his radar to determine whether he wants to fly through a rainy area or not.

I am thinking that if you direct all your questions to the positive, i.e. how much safer aircraft are today, how thorough the pilot training, and the advances in the industry are overall, you may feel better rather than concentrating on the negative. Somewhere in another post I compared flying to driving, in that if the same standards were applied to driving as flying you would have your car inspected before every flight, there would be a maintenance logbook with every thing that has ever happened to that car, you would have overhauls of your engine every so many miles, you would have a driving lane all to yourself with the nearest car 3 miles away in good weather, more in rainy or foggy conditions, you would have multiple systems to tell you when another car was around you, and if the weather were too foggy you would just go back into the house and have another cup of coffee or go find another place to stop instead of your original destination. In fact, I wish drivers would apply some of these safety considerations in their everyday driving, it would be much safer on the roads.

Hope this helps.

Hutch :tiphat:

aerobat

01-22-2011, 12:59 AM

The pilot uses his radar to determine whether he wants to fly through a rainy area or not.

Thanks, Hutch!!:tiphat:

Said Humor to Fear:

"this here town ain't big ee-nough fer the both a' us"

http://www.nvgc.org.uk/WhatToBe.html (http://www.nvgc.org.uk/WhatToBe.html)

(Fear gets up and slinks away...) :lol:

Passenger Mark

01-22-2011, 01:34 AM

Howdy! Let me add my welcome as well!

First thing that caught my eye is (part) of the title of your post...

"dead"

Why do you associate "death" with flying? Flying has saved a tremendous amount of souls. Seriously, has anyone ever thought about this? Whether it is a organ transplant, an emergency operation flight, or transporting a patient to the needed hospital.

NOT TO MENTION the COUNTLESS lifes that have been saved by getting people off the roads and into the air. Ever seen a bus accident? car accident, boating accident? I have on all three. A person is MUCH safer in the air!

WHY ASSOCIATE FLYING WITH DEATH?

Personally I think you should associate flying with LIFE! It is quick, clean, and point to point, and the crew is trained in PRESERVING life!

Flying = Living

Barb-SAN

01-22-2011, 01:43 AM

Mark, those are some great points about associating flying with life. :thumbsup:

I assume godfearingindian will correct me if I'm off-base here, but "Dead Terrified of Flying" I took to mean "I'm deathly afraid of flying"...or "scared to death". It's more about the intensity of the fear (though granted the fear is also about not surviving the flight). Although his English is excellent, there are a few places (like this) that make me think English is not his first language...or at least that phrase isn't American English usage. We can still understand...

Passenger Mark

01-22-2011, 01:55 AM

Barb-SAN

01-22-2011, 02:07 AM

Doesn't matter... or in fact matters more.....

Why use "that" English term "Death" to describe flying?

Flying does not relate to "death" it more often than not relates to "life" the preservation of life, the continuation of life.

"Life" is a common English term... I think when we associate "Life" with commercial flight we will start to get it regardless of our language.
Well, I think you have a good point. It IS important to pay attention to the words we use....because it does affect us all on a subconscious level too. We've learned from the media what sort of headlines catch our eye, and it seems that happens here at TF as well. The more dramatic ones seem to draw more responses from the membership....maybe we assume it's more of a serious, immediate crisis for that person?

godfearingindian

01-22-2011, 02:28 PM

Hello Gentlemen

Well I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everybody for the very reason that you guys are trying your best to help and indeed after learning so many things from you people there is a sense of security although minimal which was not present earlier.

Probably you guys are spot on when you say that more i think about it more i am in trouble so first step should be stop thinking about it.

At least the very answers you gave to me i would try to calm my self when i would board the aircraft

Mark I could not agree more then you that i should not attach the word DEATH with flying it is indeed quickest way to transport man and material

But what i was trying to say was that the fear of losing my life is not that worry me much i know everything that lives has to die.

But it is my beautiful and young family {Can't agree more to Captain Hutch that many or all the pilots would be having them too and they would be as keen as i am to see their loved ones }who can suffer in ultimate agony if something goes wrong is what is adding to my trauma .

I have seen death in my family {that of my father} when i was pretty young and i know that how hard it is and suddenly these things are trying to overwhelm by getting connected in my mind that what if it happens to me, that what i have done by deliberating leaving them far and now i have to board aircraft to see them again

This is not the fact that i don't understand that it is indeed safest way to travel , But the very fact accidents do happen and the chances of survival are bare and if something goes wrong that would be it

That is why i used phrase "Dead Scared of flying". But honestly you guys have been huge support to fight this monster of mine .

Passenger Mark

01-22-2011, 04:10 PM

Have some patience with me here.... It is going to sound rude, but I want you to think....

What airline crash did your Father die in?

I watched my father die just three months ago. Litterly I gave him a hug, kissed his forehead, and said a few words in his ear and 1 minute later he was gone. My Dad was a Jet Fighter Pilot during Korea (when jets were not too safe) and in Viet Nam.

He was a test pilot and flew various aircraft.

But he died in his bed, at home, from a prolonged illness.

I too have watched death, death of family, coworkers, and friends. MOST could have been prevented.

In High-school and College I saw the death of 7 friends from drunk driving, another few from reckless driving.

I had a close cousin die (just married with a new baby) from falling asleep at the wheel.

I have had friends die from smoking related cancer and alcoholism.

I guess if I were to fear Death, or fear others having to experience my death, I would fear:

1. Alcohol
2. Automobiles
3. Tobacco

I have lived and wandered around on this planet for near 50 years. I have YET to have anyone that I even had a remote knowledge of die or even get hurt in a commercial airline. And I have friends and family all over the world.

So, you don't want your family to experience your death because of flying, yet you will consider not flying and putting yourself in EXTREME harms way by choosing another, more dangerous, mode of transportation.

Again, not being rude... maybe I am... not my intention, just kind-of getting your attention here!

godfearingindian

01-23-2011, 01:28 AM

Hello Mark

I wold take it as you say , You not being rude but honest and i admire honest men

I am sorry for your father 's loss.

My dad did n't died in any airline crash, but on that dreaded day he suffered Cardiac Arrest and then...

It was all of sudden.

This is what i was trying to tell you . It happened when every thing was smooth for our family ....

It hit our life .... like a 100Mph truck hit us head on.

I suffered alot and trust me it was so scary for me that it still traumatizes me that what if something happens to me what about my children.

I don't smoke . no alcohol either .... and well i don't know why flying is where this fear of mine take a monstrous proportion.

Passenger Mark

01-23-2011, 03:08 AM

It is because we "think" that flying is the only place we have no control. We don't fear driving because we are in "control".

Many times we read here that people had no problem with flying when they were younger, then as they become adults, with responsibilities including family they start fearing flying.

It is truly admirable that one want's to preserve their life for the sake of their loved ones. So these "responsible" adults start living their life in the safest mode possible, and this includes maintaining control of what risks we expose ourselves to.

Since we only sit in the back of the plane and only have "control" over the air vent, we feel we have given our life's and our family's future over to others.

This is where the "fear" and anxiety comes from. What we have to do is understand the technical, and loving side of this entire proposition.

The technical side is that mathematically flying is far safer than any other mode of transportation in all of history. We all know that, we all realize that.

The loving side is a basic trust of humans. Most of the humans serving the professional airline industry have loved ones, they understand the basic need to preserve life at all costs.

And the most important "loving" side of this is to understand that those two individuals who ARE in control of your aircraft, the professional pilots, have loved ones, a wife, husband, daughter, son, mother, father, etc. They are NOT going to do anything to risk their family's future and happiness. And since you are going where they go... Trust them!

Barb-SAN

01-23-2011, 03:17 AM

And the most important "loving" side of this is to understand that those two individuals who ARE in control of your aircraft, the professional pilots, have loved ones, a wife, husband, daughter, son, mother, father, etc. They are NOT going to do anything to risk their family's future and happiness. And since you are going where they go... Trust them!
I posted this on another thread recently, but seems appropriate to post here too: (5 min. video...best part is the ENDING!) http://web.me.com/kentwien/aboutme/page1/page1.html

And please note...Kent Wien, the pilot who made the video, joined TF and posted a greeting. :D
It's on this thread...
http://www.takingflight.us/forums/showthread.php?t=9819

TXflyer

01-23-2011, 12:50 PM

Hey godfearingindian! So glad you have joined us on these forums.

It sounds like you've gotten a lot of great advice already and are making some progress. I just wanted to reinforce that stopping any of those thoughts related to Fear of Flying (FoF) is key. For instance, a few posts back, you said something about allowing yourself to feel terrified because you know that accidents happen and survival is rare, so if something does go wrong "that would be it."

This, however, is simply NOT TRUE! :) Of course none of us would argue that there aren't some deaths in commercial air travel each year, or that those aren't tragedies. But you don't need to feel like if something goes wrong on a flight, you are doomed. If you look through the archives here you will find stories of fearful flyers who went through engine failures, aborted landings, emergency landings, etc. Most of the time, these people were fearful flyers already, and going through these experiences actually helped them in getting over the FoF because they realized that pilots are VERY well equipped to handle unexpected occurrences in the flight. As far as I've read here, in none of these instances was anyone even injured, much less killed.

Of course, the times when there are deaths stick in our minds, and if we allow them to, they can convince us we need to stay off of planes for our safety and our family's well-being. However, as we've reviewed, not only is flying EXTREMELY safe in comparison to other forms of transport, it is safe compared to the stuff we do in everyday life. Someone mentioned on here once that you are as likely to die from slipping in the shower and hitting your head as from an accident on a commercial airliner, but of course we don't fear showering. And we don't fear it not only because we logically know that it's VERY safe, but because we've conditioned our mind to accept that (and because there aren't over-dramatized news reports every time someone does slip in the shower that condition us otherwise).

So not only do you need to logically believe that flying is safe, but you have to do the repetitive work of consciously conditioning your mind to accept it. When you start to question the safety of certain planes or practices, stop yourself and repeat, "I trust the airline industry. It is 100% safe." While some questioning is fine, the problem is that it's really the fear center of your brain that is coming up with these questions, and you are actually feeding it by finding answers and telling yourself that has made you safe. In truth, commercial flight in the US or any country with comparable flight regulations is completely safe, period. If you continue to fight your fear by asking these questions and feeling better when you're told a certain aircraft or practice is safe, what happens when you are on the flight and have no one to ask? You panic, and then although you make it through the flight physically fine (since flying is safe), you have conditioned yourself yet again to be afraid of flying. Much better to follow the steps mentioned here and on anxieties.com of thought-stopping, repeating positive mantras, and having a designated worry time. Then you can start the work of catching up the emotional part of your brain to the part that already knows that flying is safe.

I have rambled on quite a lot here, but I just want to emphasize that you are in the right place and already doing great! Just take these techniques and run with them. They've worked for lots of people here who have been grounded by their FoF for 5, 10, 20 years! So it's really kind of good you caught this in the beginning. BEST of luck, please keep updating us on your progress, and hope you've enjoyed a bit of San Francisco this weekend. :)

godfearingindian

01-24-2011, 05:28 PM

Hi Guys

Thanks Guys, Atleast I have some thing to fight this fear of mine. I don't know how successful i am now to curb the monster.. But at least I am trying.

I would post you on 28th before i leave on 29th back to home for any immediate inputs.

And hopefully when i reach hope will post Pictures of my family..

Praying, Wishing and Fighting Fear for safe voyage home .....

godfearingindian

01-24-2011, 05:49 PM

Hi Guys

I was following TX-Flyer post on other thread "Petrified about Flying". Can I provide a letter to Ground staff of airlines {from where i get Boarding Pass} stating that i have fear of flying .

I would be flying Emirates from SFO to Dubai and then from Dubai to Delhi.

Would it be fine . Would they really help me or they can even disallow me to board their aircraft

aerobat

01-24-2011, 06:15 PM

Here's the link to our letter to the airline gate agent:

http://www.takingflight.us/content/TFAirlineLetter.pdf (http://www.takingflight.us/content/TFAirlineLetter.pdf)

Hopefully you can print it out at your hotel or workplace. Then all you need to do is hand it to the gate agent when you arrive at your boarding gate. This will often permit a person to discreetly pre-board with other "special assistance" folks, and the pilots will have been notified that you wish to meet them. That meeting need not be lengthy or detailed; what you are looking for is the immediate trust-building that comes with a handshake and eye contact and a few reassuring words. It really helps! :thumbsup:

Between now and the day you fly home, try to accept that what you are doing every day in battling your fear is the absolute right thing to be doing. It is typical for people to not realize on the ground what a difference this work is making, because the results are largely beneath conscious awareness, and there's a tendency to be pessimistic. But the fact that you are experiencing just a little relief is a good sign! You will see the payoff for your efforts when you board the plane and fly.

Can you tell us what tools and techniques you are using and where these fit into your day?

Barb-SAN

01-24-2011, 06:15 PM

Would it be fine . Would they really help me or they can even disallow me to board their aircraft
I've used the meet the pilot letter many times without any problems.

Here's a new suggestion...Print out this thread, (with an extra copy for the pilots) and bring it with you along with the meet the pilot letter. That way if there is any question about what we are doing here on this forum, you can share it with the pilots. (So far as I know, that would be the first time anyone has printed out their thread for the pilots). They might find it interesting to read when they are in the "cruise" part of the flight and not so busy. And of course they would be more than welcome to drop by and say "Hi" here after the flight. :D

The link to the letter is here: http://www.takingflight.us/forums/showthread.php?t=7731

Barb-SAN

01-24-2011, 06:16 PM

Wow...simultaneous post with Aerobat Barb! :D

aerobat

01-24-2011, 06:20 PM

Haha! Somebody owes somebody a Coke! :lol:

Wow...if this thread in its entirety is going to be shared with the pilots, then we need to include some entertainment for them during that long, boring cruise...:band::dance::banana:

Howzabout a few limericks? :tongue:

Passenger Mark

01-24-2011, 11:52 PM

Howzabout a few limericks? :tongue:

Okay... From Boy Scout Camp....

There once was a women dressed in black, that.....

CENSORED

aerobat

01-25-2011, 01:13 AM

Okay... From Boy Scout Camp....

There once was a women dressed in black, that.....

:eek::mg: Boy Scout Camp limericks?? Those have to be the worst of the worst...:blush:

But I will take a bit of inspiration from your first line:

A :chicken: who dressed all in black
And glumly sat way in the back
Had a seatmate in white
Show her she'd be all right
When he spread out his wings and said "quack". :lol:

godfearingindian

01-25-2011, 01:33 PM

Hi Guys

I would be now flying on 28th a day before...

Barb-SAN

01-25-2011, 03:01 PM

O.K. Do you write limericks in India? Or any sort of "word play" or jokes that are traditional?

I remember one of the first times I did "meet the pilot", that pilot was so funny he had me laughing, and with the laughter the anxiety just evaporated.

Do you think you will print out this entire thread and share it with the pilots? I know that must seem like a really goofy thing to do. But remember...pilots are used to seeing fearful flyers on their flights. One time when I met the pilots, the captain told me his MOTHER was afraid to fly. So, he was very sympathetic, and also curious to know what I had done to get over it. At least if you print out a copy, you can decide at the time if it would be a good idea to share it or not. And having it with you on the plane to read might be reassuring as well.

You could also print out anything you find useful from www.anxieties.com (http://www.anxieties.com) and have that available for reference on the plane.

Did you have a chance to go sight-seeing this weekend, and have a bit of FUN?

Can you tell us what tools and techniques you are using and where these fit into your day? Yes, I'm curious about this also.

godfearingindian

01-25-2011, 05:33 PM

O.K. Do you write limericks in India? Or any sort of "word play" or jokes that are traditional?

I remember one of the first times I did "meet the pilot", that pilot was so funny he had me laughing, and with the laughter the anxiety just evaporated.

Do you think you will print out this entire thread and share it with the pilots? I know that must seem like a really goofy thing to do. But remember...pilots are used to seeing fearful flyers on their flights. One time when I met the pilots, the captain told me his MOTHER was afraid to fly. So, he was very sympathetic, and also curious to know what I had done to get over it. At least if you print out a copy, you can decide at the time if it would be a good idea to share it or not. And having it with you on the plane to read might be reassuring as well.

You could also print out anything you find useful from www.anxieties.com (http://www.anxieties.com) and have that available for reference on the plane.

Did you have a chance to go sight-seeing this weekend, and have a bit of FUN?

Yes, I'm curious about this also.
Hello Barb San

Yeah i will definitely take prints of the thread along with me . I had my cousin living on Oakland so spent time with her on weekend it was good.

Barb San

I am trying things like breathing tricks, Listening to some spiritual music, going out for walk or workout to relieve tension
and last but not the least prayers

TXflyer

01-26-2011, 12:16 AM

Hey GFI! So glad you are working on the relaxation techniques. Do as much as you can of the thought-stopping and replacement with positive mantras as you can, even if it feels hard at first. This is a central technique for replacing our (illogical) anxiety with true, positive thinking. Once we do enough of this, our body starts believing the new ways we've trained our brains to think, and we can relax on flights!

I've only spoken to the pilots twice, and I never even took the letter with me (though this will certainly help you be understood). In my two brief experiences, everyone was very understanding. Pilots and other airline employees want you to feel good at flying so you'll keep doing it; you getting over your fears means more passengers for them, which means more secure job!

I hope you'll continue to use the techniques you've got and build on them so that you'll have successful flights this time, and that you'll keep in touch with us when you are home and keep working on this so that future air travel is no problem. Just think -- in mere days you can give us a successful flight report and in weeks or months you can write to encourage other fearful fliers!

godfearingindian

01-26-2011, 06:34 PM

Hi TX_flyer

Thanks I am indeed working and for time being they do help when i am overanxious to calm me a bit.

Like you said it is ultimate wish at this point of time to reach safely home and see my family ... my kids ....

I wish and pray to god to help me reach home safely.

godfearingindian

01-27-2011, 01:38 AM

There is a strong North -eastern storm off US east coast . Emirates flight 226 SFO-Dubai flys over Washington, Vancouver ... Is n't Storm a concern

Barb-SAN

01-27-2011, 01:51 AM

There is a strong North -eastern storm off US east coast . Emirates flight 226 SFO-Dubai flys over Washington, Vancouver ... Is n't Storm a concern
Hmmmm...well the East Coast is how many miles away from San Francisco? I'm not sure exactly...2,500 - 3,000 miles? That's pretty far away.
You fly tomorrow, right? Weather for San Francisco tomorrow looks fabulous, sunny and 67 for a high...all is well. :D
You are flying north over Washington State (West Coast), right, not Washington DC (East Coast)?
Here's a U.S. current weather map for reference:

godfearingindian

01-27-2011, 02:25 AM

Oh .... Thanks Barb San i would be flying on 28th though .

Barb-SAN

01-27-2011, 02:58 AM

Oh .... Thanks Barb San i would be flying on 28th though .
Oh, right, today is only the 26th. Well, forecast for Friday the 28th is almost the same for San Francisco, partly cloudy, high of 65, 10% chance of rain. Still looks good. :D

aerobat

01-28-2011, 01:09 AM

Hey, godfearingindian,

I'm wishing you the very best of good fortune, blessings and equanimity tomorrow and throughout your journey home. Once you're on the plane and off the ground, I think you'll see at least some of these phantoms evaporate. No more anticipation, no more decisions. Instead, an opportunity to explore the flight experience as something that can become friendly and trustworthy for you.

I hope you'll meet the pilots, and we are looking forward to hearing from you after you get home, and to seeing pictures of your family. :thumbsup:

godfearingindian

01-28-2011, 05:56 PM

Thanks Aerobat for your kind words and wishes..... Certainly i will post pictures of my family once i reach home...

May almighty spares his grace on me to make my journey back home easy and good.

godfearingindian

01-31-2011, 09:59 PM

Finally I reached home....:)

Here is what happened that day for me . I started early for SFO Airport . I reached there and my anxiety level just multiplied. I was going home and i was not thinking about it...Fear started taking it's toll....

it took me 15 minutes to finally decide that OK i am boarding this flight.... I did the check in and then i had this panic attack and i collapsed at checking counter....

Somebody rushed me to Airport's Medical center. Doctor's commenced ECG and KGB me on me. They said you are ok but you seem to be very anxious ...

Then i narrated them my agony. Doctors suggested that don't board aircraft if you don't feel like doing so...I said i had to head home and have no other option....

then they gave me valium and put me on 8 hour dose.

Drug infused some level of confidence and i somehow boarded aircraft .

it was a 14 hout flight to dubai.I believe due to drug i managed 4 hour sleep on flight and then spent 2 hrs watching a movie.

But rest of 8 hours i was awake and i simply prayed for my safe flight. There was slight turbulence on the way . every time it would be there i would manage it by saying it is OK...

then i landed safely in Dubai and had a 10 hour stopover before my next flight to Delhi...

it was early morning and again i took my Valium to board aircraft . I was super anxious and it was like my chest would burst open

Then captain announced there are few thunderstorms in vicinity of Delhi and we would have a bumpy landing at Delhi...

I was White with scare and only thing convincing was it was 2:30 hour long flight.

I kept on my prayers and surprisingly it was very smooth landing for me to reach home.I was so excited that i thanked aircrew and said pay my ultimate thanks to Captain for bringing me home safely

I was so anxious that i forgot to share the print out's of this thread and letter to crew....

It was like getting another life when i saw my kids..:grouphug:...

But he trauma seems to continue .....I can't stop thinking of the perils ....and it was even more when i reported back to my Boss he said i would have to fly back i april too...
ad this sinking feeling always... and a gloom...i am trying to fight... but if i could n't i don't think i can ever board a plane in my life again ....

But thank you guys there were number of instances when my anxiety would grew uncontrolled and then i would try to remember what you guys have told me and it HELPED...

Thank you and Thank god i am with my kids

Barb-SAN

01-31-2011, 11:50 PM

Finally I reached home....:)
I was so anxious that i forgot to share the print out's of this thread and letter to crew....
It was like getting another life when i saw my kids..:grouphug:...
But the trauma seems to continue .....I can't stop thinking of the perils ....and it was even more when i reported back to my Boss he said i would have to fly back in april too...
and this sinking feeling always... and a gloom...i am trying to fight... but if i could n't i don't think i can ever board a plane in my life again ....
But thank you guys there were number of instances when my anxiety would grew uncontrolled and then i would try to remember what you guys have told me and it HELPED...
Thank you and Thank god i am with my kids

Hi godfearingindian, and thanks for the update. I've been wondering how your flight went. Very glad that you made it back O.K., though sorry to hear about the panic attacks at the airport. Interesting to hear that there's an airport medical center, and that they are able to attend to people quickly who are having a panic attack.

It's unfortunate that you forgot to ask to meet the pilots. That's a VERY important help for many people with fear of flying. When you meet the people IN CHARGE OF FLYING THE PLANE, and see how professional and competent they are, you can relax and turn over control to them. They will reassure you telling you about all their experience, that they have families waiting for them at home, etc. You can see with your own eyes their ease in the cockpit.

It is encouraging that there were things you could remember that you learned here at TF that helped you to reduce your anxiety. So, you are on the right track!

I think if you are going to continue with this job, and flying back and forth to the U.S., you have some work to do (relying on Valium is not enough). Where are you located in India? (i.e. are you in a major city? Delhi?) Have you seen a medical Dr. or therapist in the past for panic attacks? We can offer some support here on the Internet, but also suggest that if you feel your fear is extreme, you consider working with a professional, in person (that could be a psychologist specializing in anxiety disorders, a biofeedback therapist, someone connected with your religious faith, or even a yoga teacher who will teach you some tools for calming yourself.). You might also investigate if any of the airlines in India offer fear of flying courses, with a chance to take a "practice flight" after finishing the course. Another possibility is to see if you can take any classes about aviation at school. I don't know what's offered in India. Here you can go to "ground school", either as a formal class, or privately with a flight instructor. I've found it helpful to learn more about the entire aviation industry, airspace, aerodynamics, weather, etc. All of this takes time and effort, but the payoff in understanding is so worth it.

If you are computer savvy...you could also check out MS FlightSim or some of the other flight simulator programs.

You are also more than welcome to keep participating here at Taking Flight. Also check out some of the resources, help track other member's flights, ask questions, learn about how planes fly, etc. If it's at all possible to take some short flights around India before April, that would be a good idea too (and ask to meet the pilots....;)).

godfearingindian

05-05-2011, 10:33 AM

Hi Friends

Just returned back Delhi From SFO and this time i was determined that i will try to remember what Taking flight as told me and will not ask for any further help and it worked....

I was flying to same destination after a period of 3 months {last trip going horribly wrong due FOF }I choose British airways this time to reach SFO via London this time. I was anxious before boarding the aircraft{777-200} to London but i was trying to be calm . Flight left on schedule on 16th April 2011. for all 9 hours of flight from Delhi to London there was slight turbulence on the way . Every time plane would "shake" i would calm my anxiety by telling me "It is OK... There will be turbulence on every route and 777 is brilliant plane and it can jerk off this turbulence with ease " and "i trust my pilot "

And, God o wonder... it worked . I was relatively calm and infact was looking to pass time this by watching movie {last time i was white on rather very comfortable flight}. I cursed food BA offered me on flight {sorry but In flight service from Delhi to London was pathetic (i was flying BA for first time) and i was cursing my self why i choose BA over Emirates{i flew it more often and they are better .... No Doubt } }

Landed Heathrow and then rushed to connecting flight which was scheduled to leave for SFO in an Hour !!!! and trust me this time no anxiety when boarded the BA flight to SFO {747-400} . I was infact praying that please better service this time and thank god it was more like what i expected from Brits...

I slept for 6 hours !!!!! {Longest so far on a flight} without any pill.... watched a movie and i landed in SFO after 10 hours flight which was very comfortable and smooth as honey ....

Unlike my last stay I had no anxiety during my stay this time for 2 weeks i enjoyed california {Wonderful restaurants ....}....

my return flight was rather interesting . I started early on 29th April. i was 3 hours early for my flight . Had a good heavy lunch at SFO international and was not anxious at all till i saw my plane {747-400}which would take me to london.As it was taxing to door and it was then when i thought i saw smoke coming out of leftmost engine and i was shocked ... i tried to calm my self ... Honestly it did not worked initially and in flash i opened my computer and was browsing through google to find any clues ...

after 20 mins it simply struck then .... ok It cannot be trouble..
if it was indeed fire then ... Crew would have known and they would not make me sit a faulty plane !!!!! Probably it is some thing that i don't know and will ask Taking flight crew...

and here i am ... So what do you think it was gentlemen ? I guess some kind of vapors ...???

Anyways i kept telling this to myself and felt a lot better . Boarded the aircraft and after 20 mins i was asleep again ... 4 hours this time , Movie and we landed in 9 hours this time in very smooth flight ....

My next flight was to Delhi and i hoped it would be better and it looked like one . Plane {777-200} was rather new Good entertainment systems and this time food was good.

I got a pleasant company in two ladies travelling to India {for first time }on vacation . They hailed from Sacramento and very curious to know about my country.

Flight went smooth till we reached over hilly terrain at Pakistan- Afghan border. Flight became rather turbulent {something i had never witnessed till then}. Anxiety peeped in ... but i again remembered ..."It is OK and it is not going to last long .." plus in flight food service was on and it was kind of comforting seeing the air crew.

I was continuously watching the monitor in front of me and was tracking the flight on GPS map and was telling me that as soon as we cross hills it would be calm...

it continued for 30-40 mins and then as we crossed the hills and i was about 30 mins from Delhi... Shaking grew more violent .... it was like plane was falling and it happened 5-6 times over course of 10 mins.

I was trying to calm and was telling me "I trust my pilots..". My co -passenger got into panic attack and started crying . She grasped my left arm so fiercely, i felt like she is going to pluck it out .She told me weepingly ..."I love my husband very much and i don't want to die like this ...." There were lot of "OOO's and AAHH's " in the flight by then and everybody seemed to be scared.

Trust me .... i actually was calming the lady and started explaining the lady al about the mechanics of Plane and Turbulence and actually made her felt good . She stopped crying and she said .."Ok ,, I hope everything you are saying is true and i land safely ....."

Flight attendant who was sitting in front of me and facing me said ...."Maam... Sir are absolutely right..."

She congratulated me on my knowledge {i thanked Taking Flight} and appreciated my effort to calm the passenger and it was then Captain apologized for Bumpy ride due to Bad weather on PA system .

I was feeling proud ....then we landed safely at IGI delhi... Lady next to me thanked me and i wished her pleasant stay in India....and was off to home...

My My ..... i still can't believe that i manged to stay calm when i was going through worst turbulence and that too for an hour or so .... Thank you again Taking Flight ........

But i have a question here....I guess of Course the plane i was traveling had a radar that would have detected Bad weather or probably pilots would have known long before via ATC's . What is the degree of BAD weather which actually tells the pilot that OK i am not going to take this route or i am not going to fly through it ....?

I would be flying to Shanghai next month and i am looking forward to fly again ......

Barb-SAN

05-05-2011, 02:10 PM

Hey, godfearingindian, great to see you back here with such a wonderful flight report! :hyped::hyped: Congratulations!! It must be a huge relief to see that you can travel the world, and this time enjoy your trip. Perhaps because you knew more what to expect, it wasn't such an adjustment as the first time you made this LONG flight. Also, you have learned what to say to yourself to keep yourself calm...how important "self-talk" is, and you are more knowledgeable about aviation too!

I was trying to calm and was telling me "I trust my pilots..". My co -passenger got into panic attack and started crying . She grasped my left arm so fiercely, i felt like she is going to pluck it out .She told me weepingly ..."I love my husband very much and i don't want to die like this ...." There were lot of "OOO's and AAHH's " in the flight by then and everybody seemed to be scared.

Trust me .... i actually was calming the lady and started explaining the lady al about the mechanics of Plane and Turbulence and actually made her felt good . She stopped crying and she said .."Ok ,, I hope everything you are saying is true and i land safely ....."

Flight attendant who was sitting in front of me and facing me said ...."Maam... Sir are absolutely right..."

She congratulated me on my knowledge {i thanked Taking Flight} and appreciated my effort to calm the passenger and it was then Captain apologized for Bumpy ride due to Bad weather on PA system .

I was feeling proud ....then we landed safely at IGI delhi... Lady next to me thanked me and i wished her pleasant stay in India....and was off to home...
It seems that what's worked best for you is TRUST THE PILOTS, and then help someone else who is more nervous than you are. ;) This is a benefit that comes to those of us who spend time here at Taking Flight too...by explaining things to others, we help them, and also ourselves, to learn more about the mechanics of flight, weather, and dealing with anxiety.
It all helps, and seeing the change from your first flight to this one will surely encourage others (perhaps even some of your countrymen) who are contemplating a long flight.

My My ..... i still can't believe that i manged to stay calm when i was going through worst turbulence and that too for an hour or so .... Thank you again Taking Flight ........

But i have a question here....I guess of Course the plane i was traveling had a radar that would have detected Bad weather or probably pilots would have known long before via ATC's . What is the degree of BAD weather which actually tells the pilot that OK i am not going to take this route or i am not going to fly through it ....?
You may find this thread in Capt. Hutch's forum helpful...
http://www.takingflight.us/forums/showthread.php?t=8300 :D
I would be flying to Shanghai next month and i am looking forward to fly again ......
A question for you...have you had a chance to meet the pilots yet? If not...I think you would really find it interesting, especially if they let you visit them in the cockpit before the flight. I don't know what the rules on this are outside the U.S., if it would be possible or not. On this last flight, the pilots would have been able to tell you about what might have caused the smoke you were concerned about. (I haven't a clue...maybe Capt. Hutch would know).

Barb-SAN

05-05-2011, 03:23 PM

About your flight route from London to Delhi...would you be able to draw it on a map for us? Since you were tracking it on GPS, perhaps you remember details of which mountains you flew over in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Here's a link to a map showing some of the mountains there: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Afghan_topo_en.jpg
I've never flown to that part of the world, nor studied the weather, wind patterns, etc. You might find it interesting to research that.

I do know from flying over the Rocky Mountains in the U.S. that you can get some turbulence caused by the mountains disrupting the airflow. Pilots learn to avoid the "mountain wave" (explained here: http://www.tpub.com/weather2/3-25.htm ). I've never experienced severe turbulence crossing the Rockies (in a commercial airliner), but several times it's been at least light-moderate turb. for 10-15 min.
Here's a bit more (from the perspective of a sailplane pilot): http://www.aviationweather.ws/099_Mountain_Wave_Soaring.php

Mountain waves occur most frequently along the central and northern Rockies and the northern Appalachians. Occasionally, waves form to the lee of mountains in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and southwestern Texas. Weather satellites have observed waves extending great distances downwind from the Rocky Mountains; one series extended for nearly 700 miles. The more usual distance is 150 to 300 miles. While Appalachian waves are not as strong as those over the Rockies, they occur frequently; and satellites have observed them at an average of 115 miles downwind. Wave length of these waves averages about 10 nautical miles.

I did take a short flight in a Cessna at Lake Tahoe a few years ago, including some time over adjacent mountains (at a MUCH lower altitude than a commercial jet). We got some good jolts approaching the lee side of the mountains (would have hit my head on the ceiling if not wearing a seatbelt).

So...it may be that you can just count on having some level of turbulence when you are in the vicinity of those high mountains, and remember to keep your seatbelt securely fastened. Sometimes I ask the pilots before the flight what the turb. forecast is, to help time bathroom breaks. :D

aerobat

05-05-2011, 07:29 PM

Hi, there, godfearingindian!! :wave:

You said on January 31:

But he trauma seems to continue .....I can't stop thinking of the perils ....and it was even more when i reported back to my Boss he said i would have to fly back i april too...
ad this sinking feeling always... and a gloom...i am trying to fight... but if i could n't i don't think i can ever board a plane in my life again ....

and then, today:

I was feeling proud ....then we landed safely at IGI delhi... Lady next to me thanked me and i wished her pleasant stay in India....and was off to home...

My My ..... i still can't believe that i manged to stay calm when i was going through worst turbulence and that too for an hour or so .... Thank you again Taking Flight ........

I would be flying to Shanghai next month and i am looking forward to fly again ......

I love it! :lol: You have broken through and are now solidly on your way to recovery! :tiphat::tiphat: A big, fat CONGRATULATIONS!! to you!:thumbsup::sunshine:

godfearingindian

05-11-2011, 08:06 AM

About your flight route from London to Delhi...would you be able to draw it on a map for us? Since you were tracking it on GPS, perhaps you remember details of which mountains you flew over in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Here's a link to a map showing some of the mountains there: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Afghan_topo_en.jpg
I've never flown to that part of the world, nor studied the weather, wind patterns, etc. You might find it interesting to research that.

I do know from flying over the Rocky Mountains in the U.S. that you can get some turbulence caused by the mountains disrupting the airflow. Pilots learn to avoid the "mountain wave" (explained here: http://www.tpub.com/weather2/3-25.htm ). I've never experienced severe turbulence crossing the Rockies (in a commercial airliner), but several times it's been at least light-moderate turb. for 10-15 min.
Here's a bit more (from the perspective of a sailplane pilot): http://www.aviationweather.ws/099_Mountain_Wave_Soaring.php

I did take a short flight in a Cessna at Lake Tahoe a few years ago, including some time over adjacent mountains (at a MUCH lower altitude than a commercial jet). We got some good jolts approaching the lee side of the mountains (would have hit my head on the ceiling if not wearing a seatbelt).

So...it may be that you can just count on having some level of turbulence when you are in the vicinity of those high mountains, and remember to keep your seatbelt securely fastened. Sometimes I ask the pilots before the flight what the turb. forecast is, to help time bathroom breaks. :D

Hello Barb San

Thanks for the compliments and sorry for delay in responding to your post . Got stuck in something critical.

Well, Regarding your question on the route flight followed where turbulence was encountered it was Mazar-e-sharif -> Jalalabad -> Islamabad -> Lahore -> Chandigarh -> Delhi

@ Aerobat, Thanks pal for your kind words ... BTW anybody got chance to look at the questions i posted along my report.

Barb-SAN

05-11-2011, 02:25 PM

Well, Regarding your question on the route flight followed where turbulence was encountered it was Mazar-e-sharif -> Jalalabad -> Islamabad -> Lahore -> Chandigarh -> Delhi
Aha, did you take a look at that route on Google Earth, and see what sort of mountains you were flying over, and read the information about mountain wave at the links I posted? Also I notice today how HOT it is there in India. You can also get turbulence in hot weather caused by rising air from the hot ground.

BTW anybody got chance to look at the questions i posted along my report.
Which questions did you not find addressed?
If it's this one: "What is the degree of BAD weather which actually tells the pilot that OK i am not going to take this route or i am not going to fly through it ....?
I would again refer you to this thread for a lengthy discussion of flying in thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, what the pilots see on their radar, etc. There's far more information there than a short answer here will provide, and there are posts from several pilots (including Capt. Hutch) in that thread. http://www.takingflight.us/forums/showthread.php?t=8300