The news is a toxic media cycle that feeds on our fears, and nowhere is this more evident than in the recent string of plane crashes and other aviation disasters that have graced the headlines in recent months. So far, there have been 94 aviation accidents in 2025. And while this might seem like a high number, there is no need to fret. Flying is still the safest mode of transportation out there, and Aviation Aaron (as I like to call myself) has got you covered with some tips to ease your flight anxiety for your big spring break getaway. For context, over spring break I will be taking a 16-hour flight to China, and I’m nervous. I, too, have become a victim to these toxic news outlets, which has made my anxiety for this upcoming flight relatively high. So, here are some tips that I’ve learned in recent weeks that have helped me with my flight anxiety.
#1: Put it all in perspective
Yes, 94 aviation accidents in 2025 is a very scary number to look at. However, between Jan. 1 and Feb. 19 of 2024, a total of 123 aviation accidents were reported, according to Newsweek. And so, these accidents, at least in terms of sheer numbers, are quite par for the course. From this, we can reasonably assume that air travel is as safe as it was last year. However, this level of fear and hysteria wasn’t present last year because the accidents weren’t as sensational; many of them occurred on small planes and had fewer fatalities. The cases in this most recent string of accidents that have gotten the most headlines involve popular airlines like Delta and United and have high fatality rates, making them ripe to use for fear-mongering and creating false narratives. In terms of the rate of accidents, air travel is as reliable as it has ever been.
If you’re like me, hearing stats doesn’t necessarily ease your anxiety. So here’s a different perspective; if the flight crew seriously thought the route was unsafe today, would they still take off? Would they be willing to risk their lives? The pilot and the flight attendants all have the same things at stake should something terrible happen. If they thought that something could go wrong, I can assure you that they would not be on that plane.
#2: Before you board
My first tips come before you even board the plane. Instead of letting your fear of flying overwhelm you prior to the flight, get hyped about your destination! Vacation planning is already stressful enough, so your flight shouldn’t be something you have to worry about. Before your flight, try to do what you can to make your flight as comfortable as possible, whether that’s booking a window or aisle seat, buying that expensive neck pillow to catch some z’s or getting some quality food at the airport. Every time I fly, I also bring my own headphones, book, snacks and chargers to make my travel experience as smooth as possible.
#3: Some practical advice
Okay, so you’ve made it onto the plane, you’ve got your seatbelt on, the flight attendants have given their annoying but necessary safety instructions and then… bam. The anxiety hits. Your thoughts are racing, playing every single worst-case scenario in your head. If that happens to you, here are some practical tips that you can use on the plane to calm your nerves.
Distract yourself. Don’t just sit there, letting your nerves stew. Perhaps read a good book, or watch a movie—many airlines have complimentary earbuds and in-seat entertainment for a reason! Whatever you do, do something to occupy your mind. Whatever happens happens. But sitting there, thinking about what can go wrong will send your anxiety skyward. Some of my favorite plane movies include “Mean Girls,” “Back to the Future” and anything else that makes me laugh!
Picture yourself in your destination. Remind yourself of the exciting trip you have ahead and what you’re gonna do after you land. In my case, I’ll have a couple of hours of waiting in customs lines, so I guess this won’t help much for me. But imagine yourself lying on the beach in Hawaii, partying in Mexico or riding that roller coaster. Isn’t that the whole reason you’re going on this trip?
Anxiety, in any way, shape or form, can be debilitating. If none of these techniques work, you can also try meditation and simply focus on your breathing, or take an over-the-counter sleeping aid, like melatonin, to try and get an afternoon nap in the sky. The most important thing is to do what works for you and have an amazing time on your spring break trip!
