Sensations Flight Anxiety Q&A
- Why did the engines get quiet after takeoff?
The pilots reduced thrust to cruise power.
- Why did my stomach just drop?
We leveled off or hit a small air pocket.
- The wings are shaking! Is that safe?
Yes, they are designed to bend.
- It feels like we are slowing down mid-air!
We aren't stopping; just adjusting speed.
- Can turbulence make the plane fall?
No. The plane stays flying due to physics.
- What if lightning strikes us?
The electricity flows around the skin of the plane.
- Why did we just pull up and not land? (Go-Around)
The runway wasn't perfect, so we are being safe.
- The plane is banking too steeply!
It is physically impossible to tip over.
- What if we have to stop on the runway? (RTO)
The brakes are incredibly powerful.
- What if I have a panic attack?
The crew is trained to look after you.
- Why does it feel like we are landing sideways?
The pilot is using a safe, advanced technique called 'crabbing'.
- What is a quick technique to stop a panic attack?
Try the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method right now.
- I can't catch my breath. What should I do?
Use the 5-5-5 breathing rule to calm your nervous system.
- Why does turning make me feel like I am falling or dizzy?
Your inner ear gets confused when you cannot see the horizon.