Every time a commercial jet prepares for takeoff, some passengers feel intense anxiety. Their hearts race, palms sweat, and minds fear disaster. Hanna, a 38-year-old commercial pilot, recognized this fear early in her career. “They’d panic despite hearing aviation safety statistics,” Hanna shared with Newsweek about the nervous flyers she once tried to reassure with facts.
Two and a half years ago, Hanna began blending her flying expertise with knowledge of psychology, yoga, and breathwork. Through her Instagram account, @flying_wingwoman, she reached over 28,000 followers with a vital message. While facts about flying can ease fears slightly, true calm comes from first supporting the body.
From Cabin Crew to Cockpit
Hanna’s journey to becoming a pilot was unique. “I started in aviation as a child,” she explained. Her mother worked as cabin crew, allowing Hanna to spend much of her childhood on planes. Captivated by pilots and flight decks, her interest led her to start flight training after two years as cabin crew. Continuing to work full-time, she secured her first pilot job eight weeks post-training.
Why Facts Alone Don’t Calm Nervous Flyers
Her approach to anxious passengers changed six years ago during her psychology studies and yoga and breathing instructor training. “I realized I needed to address mind and body reactions, not just share flying facts,” she said. While aviation statistics help, they don’t ease panic in anxious flyers. Fear impairs the rational brain, which comprehends facts.
“The brain prioritizes survival over rationality when facing danger,” Hanna explained. During such moments, rational thought disappears, superseded by survival instincts. Consequently, relying solely on facts doesn’t quell panic as control over mind and body is lost.
Breathing as the Reset Button
For nervous flyers, takeoff is often more daunting than turbulence. Anxiety peaks at the start of the journey. While Hanna shares calming facts, deeper support is often necessary. “Deep breathing is crucial for regaining control over mind and body,” she stated.
Upon learning breathing techniques, passenger responses were immediate. Many reported feeling calmer and having a panic-free experience. “Feedback from passengers showed significant improvement, prompting me to assist nervous flyers further,” Hanna noted.
Her efforts transitioned from in-flight interactions to an extensive support network. Hanna shared stories of people who booked flights after years of avoiding them or flew calmly for the first time due to her guidance, encapsulated in a brief breathing exercise.
“People are harsh on themselves regarding this fear,” she said. “They face ridicule and negativity about flying.” Hanna offers non-judgmental support, emphasizing that while the mind perceives danger, it’s not always accurate.
For additional information, reach out to Newsweek editors Kara Dolman and Tony Phillips.
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