Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Aviophobia, or fear of flying, occurs when getting on a plane triggers intense anxiety or panic. Some people may feel uneasy during take-off or turbulence, while others avoid flying altogether. This fear is often linked to worries about crashing, heights, small spaces, or not being in control. The good news is that aviophobia can be treated successfully with the right support. Options like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, and even airline-run fear-of-flying courses can make a real difference. With the right approach, it’s absolutely possible to feel calmer and more confident when travelling.
Feeling nervous before a flight is normal. However, if your anxiety is so strong that it affects your daily life or prevents you from flying, it may be a sign of aviophobia.
Anxiety or panic when thinking about flying or during a flight
Racing heartbeat, sweating, or feeling faint when you’re on a plane
Avoiding travel altogether or delaying flights
Tightness in the chest, dry mouth, or trouble breathing
Constant worrying about the flight days or weeks before take-off
Needing alcohol or medication to manage the fear
1 in 6 Australians experience fear or anxiety about flying
Aviophobia can be triggered by a past traumatic flight or fears like claustrophobia
Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat and sweating often occur before boarding
CBT and exposure therapy are effective treatments for aviophobia
Overcoming a fear of flying (aviophobia) is completely possible, and research shows that there are several effective treatments available to help manage and reduce this anxiety. These evidence-based treatments have been proven to help individuals regain control and feel more confident when flying.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most researched and effective treatments for aviophobia. It works by helping individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviours associated with the fear of flying. Through CBT, you’ll learn to replace irrational thoughts with more realistic ones, manage anxiety, and develop coping strategies. Research has shown that CBT significantly reduces anxiety and avoidance behaviours, making it a highly effective treatment for overcoming aviophobia.
Exposure therapy is another highly effective approach. It involves gradual, controlled exposure to situations that trigger fear, like flying. Starting with less intense scenarios (e.g., watching videos of planes or visiting airports), you gradually build up to real-life situations, like sitting in a stationary plane. The process helps desensitise the fear response over time, with studies showing it to be one of the most successful ways to reduce aviophobia.
Managing the physical symptoms of anxiety is another crucial aspect of overcoming aviophobia. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness can help calm your body’s fight-or-flight response during moments of panic. Research shows that these techniques are highly effective in managing the immediate symptoms of fear, making them valuable tools when you are facing anxiety-inducing situations, like preparing for or being on a flight.
Virtual reality (VR) therapy is a newer, innovative treatment showing great promise for those with aviophobia. VR therapy simulates a flying experience in a safe, controlled environment, allowing you to gradually confront your fear without the added stress of actually flying. Studies have found that VR can be highly effective in helping people reduce anxiety and build confidence in facing their fear of flying.
The research is clear: CBT, exposure therapy, relaxation techniques, and VR therapy are all effective treatments for aviophobia. These evidence-based approaches have helped many people manage and overcome their fear of flying, allowing them to travel with greater ease and confidence. With the right treatment, you can take control of your fear and work towards feeling more comfortable in the air.
*Source: Overcoming Fear of Flying: A Combined Approach of Psychopharmacology and Gradual Exposure Therapy – National Library of Medicine | PubMed Central
Learn deep breathing and muscle relaxation to calm your body’s fear response. Practise before your flight to make it easier when you're on the plane.
Start with less intense situations, like watching flight videos or visiting an airport. Gradual exposure helps you become more comfortable with flying.
Overcoming aviophobia is a process, so be patient. If needed, talk to a psychologist for personalised support and guidance.
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Our psychologists are highly qualified, with Masters or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We offer evidence-based treatment for aviophobia, using approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, and Relaxation Techniques. Support is tailored to each individual, helping them gradually face their fear of flying, reduce anxiety, and feel more confident when travelling.
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
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