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The Website For The Smart and Savvy Traveler
25 - Air Travel Safety Tips!
Related Pages - Please Also See;
26 - Cabin Pressure During Air Travel
27 - Risk of Blood Clots (Thrombosis) During Air Travel
28 - Preventing Thrombosis Injury During Air Travel
29 – In Case of Aircraft Evacuation
30 – How to Survive an Air Crash
Safety of Air Travel by Unaccompanied Minors (Children Traveling Alone by Air)
Safety of Travelers at Airports
Ensuring Air Travel Safety!
CHECK in early at the airport to avoid long lines
After checking the luggage go directly to the secure areas
At the airport, stay away from glass walls that open to public waiting areas
Cooperate with the airport security screeners. If there is a dispute, maintain your cool and report to their supervisor
Never drink tap water in an airplane, always use bottled water
There will be thorough searches of airports and airplanes prior to passengers being permitted to enter and board aircraft
Checking luggage at off-airport sites is prohibited! You may still use these sites to obtain boarding passes and seat assignments but luggage will have to be checked at the airport
No form of weapon will be permitted on your person or in carry-on luggage
Regardless of the size, items such as small pen knives, scissors and such should be left at home or placed in checked baggage
Only ticketed passengers will be permitted through the security checkpoints
Make sure that you have acceptable photo identification
More on Air Travel Safety
Travelers with E-tickets must hold one of the following documents indicating a flight departure for a current date
-- A boarding pass or paper ticket
-- A receipt for an electronic (e-ticket)
-- Maybe an itinerary generated by an airline or travel agency
Check-in at the ticket counter if you are unsure about passing through security
Vehicles parked near the airport will be closely monitored and should not be unattended
Do not leave your luggage unattended at any time
You will likely notice additional uniformed law enforcement officers and FAA canine teams patrolling the airports
Passenger and luggage check-in now takes longer due to more thorough security procedures and the elimination of curb-side check-in
For domestic flights, arrive at least 2 hours before departure - or 3 hours for an international flight, to allow more time and reduce the risk of missing a flight
Airlines now enforce carry-on baggage limits
Check with your individual airline to find out what their carry-on limits are
Carry identification. Many airlines will verify that the person checking in is the person to whom the ticket was issued
Therefore, carry at least one government-issued photo I.D. such as a driver's license or passport. A second photo I.D. is required at some airports
Luggage that appears to be abandoned could look suspicious and be confiscated and destroyed by airport personnel
Pack your own luggage so you will be able to answer questions about the contents. Airline personnel will ask if you packed your own luggage. If you say you did not, your belongings are subject to a thorough search
You will help to reduce time at the security check-in if you take only personal and carry-on items that are truly necessary for your flight or for your security. Also, laptop computers and other electronic devices must be hand checked by security personnel and may require additional time to clear security
If you have special physical needs including the need for wheelchair access when boarding the aircraft, ask your Travel Agent to make these arrangements when making flight reservations
To avoid theft of your valuables, don't pack them in luggage that will be checked. Medication, cameras, eyeglasses, jewelry, home door keys, important documents and passports are items to carry on board with you
To avoid dehydration on long flights, drink plenty of nonalcoholic, decaffeinated beverages!
Some More on Air Travel Safety
Dress appropriately for the flight: Wear natural fibers like cotton, wool, denim, or leather, which offer the best protection in an emergency. Avoid synthetic fabrics like rayon, poly/cotton, and nylon, which can melt and burn
You must check your airline's policies: Know the airline's carry-on restrictions, Portable Electronic Device (PED) policy, and wagon weight and foldability requirements
Medication: Bring your own personal medication and follow your doctor's precautions
During The Flight;
Listen to the Flight Attendants:
Pay attention to the flight attendants and follow their instructions
Wear Your Seat Belt:
Keep your seat belt fastened at all times, especially during turbulence
Turn off Electronic Devices:
Turn off or put your electronic devices in airplane mode after the doors close
Avoid Smoking:
Smoking and the use of fire is prohibited throughout the cabin
Don't Bring Hazardous Materials:
Do not bring gasoline, corrosives, or poisonous gases
Alcohol affects you more strongly in the pressurized cabin
Stretch:
Stretching can help if you're going to be in one position for a long time!
Some More on Air Travel Safety
Electronic Devices are Permitted on Flights, But There are Restrictions on their Use!
Flight Mode:
All devices must be in flight mode, which disables transmitting functions.
During Takeoff and Landing:
Devices must be secured during takeoff and landing, and when instructed by the crew during other events.
Mobile Phones:
You can only use your phone service when the main cabin door is open or when instructed by a flight attendant.
Laptops and Plane Power Ports:
You can only use these above 10,000 feet.
Electronic Cigarettes:
Most airlines don't allow the use of e-cigarettes in flights.
Safety Briefing:
You must put down all electronic devices during the safety briefing.
Tarmac:
Restrictions on using phones on the tarmac vary for different airlines and airports.
Wi-Fi and Data Networks:
You can enable Wi-Fi and data network when the service is available and indicated by the mobile signal.
Dealing With Air Turbulence!
To manage turbulence, stay calm by practicing deep breathing and engaging in distractions like reading or watching movies. Keep your seatbelt fastened at all times for safety. Consider sitting over the wings for less motion, and stay hydrated to minimize anxiety. For severe fear, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional about treatments like CBT or exposure therapy
In-Flight Coping Strategies:
Keep Your Seatbelt Fastened:
This is the most important safety measure, preventing injuries from sudden movements.
Practice Relaxation Techniques:
Deep, slow breathing can help activate the body's relaxation response
Distract Your Mind:
Engage in activities such as reading, watching movies, listening to music, or playing games to divert your attention from the turbulence
Ground Yourself:
Focus on the physical sensations in your body, such as pressing your feet into the floor, to help you stay present
Stay Informed and Educated:
Understand that turbulence is a normal part of flying and rarely causes plane crashes, which can help alleviate anxiety!
Stay Comfortable:
Make sure you are well-rested and hydrated. Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, as they can worsen anxiety!
Talk to the Flight Crew:
Flight attendants are trained to help and can provide information or reassurance
Choosing your flight:
Select a Seat Wisely:
Seats over the wings, particularly in the front of the plane, tend to experience less movement
Fly at Certain Times:
Early morning flights are often smoother due to more stable air conditions
For Chronic or Severe Fear:
Consult a Professional:
If you have a significant fear of flying, consider speaking with your doctor or a mental health professional
Explore Therapy Options:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy can be effective for overcoming specific phobias
Overcoming the Fear of Flying!
To overcome the fear of flying, also known as aviophobia, several strategies can be employed. These include relaxation techniques like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, educational resources about flight safety, and potentially therapy like exposure therapy. Addressing the fear through a combination of these methods can help individuals manage their anxiety and feel more comfortable while flying.
1. Education and Understanding:
Learn About Flying:
Understanding the mechanics of flight, common noises, and safety procedures can alleviate some anxieties
Flight Safety Information:
Researching airline safety statistics and learning about the safety measures in place can provide reassurance
2. Relaxation Techniques:
Deep Breathing:
Practicing deep, slow breaths can help regulate the nervous system and reduce feelings of panic!
Progressive Muscle Relaxation:
This technique involves tensing and releasing different muscle groups, promoting overall relaxation
Mindfulness and Meditation:
These practices can help individuals focus on the present moment and reduce anxious thoughts
Visualization:
Imagining a calm and safe environment can help create a sense of peace and control
3. Exposure Therapy:
Gradual Exposure:
Starting with less anxiety-provoking elements like watching videos of planes, then progressing to visiting airports and eventually flying
Virtual Reality:
Using VR simulations can provide a safe and controlled environment to confront fear
4. Other Helpful Strategies:
Distraction:
Engaging in activities like reading, listening to music, or watching movies can help divert attention from anxious thoughts
Comfort Items:
Bringing familiar objects or items that provide comfort can be helpful
Comfortable Seating:
Choosing a seat that feels safe and secure can also reduce anxiety
Talking to Flight Attendants:
Flight attendants are trained to assist passengers and can provide reassurance during the flight
Consider Professional Help:
If the fear of flying is severe, seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor specializing in anxiety can be beneficial
By combining these strategies, individuals can gradually overcome their fear of flying and enjoy the experience of travel!
