This page will help you decide where you might like to sit on the airplane, which airline to choose,
and when and how you would like to plan your flights. You will also find additional fun and informative aviation
related material and more information on different treatments for the fear of flying.
What is the Best Seat on the Plane?
Personally, I believe the best seat on the plane is the Captain's seat. Unfortunately this seat is normally taken!
When selecting a seat on your flight, here are some things to consider.
If you want to get off the airplane quickly to make a connection, sit further up front.
If you want easy access to the bathroom or like to the chance to get up and stretch your legs, sit in an aisle seat.
For more leg room sit in an emergency exit row. If you don't want someone leaning their seat back
in your lap, choose a "bulkhead" seat.
For a little less sensation of motion sit over the wings. You will be at the "pivot" point for the airplane's pitching, rolling
and yawing movements. If you sit in the rear of the plane, you might notice the slight movement of the tail more
than you would in other seats, but not really significantly. Also, the rear of the plane can be a bit noisy on airplanes with rear-mounted engines.
If you like to look out the window, of course choose a window seat. You can also prop a pillow against the window for napping.
The center seat is usually the least favorite seat on the plane. You may end up having "armrest wars" with your seat mates on either side.
Click here to view photos from inside airline cabins.
SeatGuru.com is a source for airplane seating and in-flight services information.
A number of people ask which seat is the safest seat on the plane. There are so many variables involved,
and the chances of being in an accident are so infinitesimal, that choosing a seat based on safety is tough.
If you continue to be concerned with the safest seat, maybe get a seat near the emergency exit.
Here's what Boeing has to say about where the safest seat on a jet during a crash is...
"There are some who believe it's safer to be seated near the wings or in the rear of the cabin.
However, there's no evidence that any one part of an aircraft is safer than another. Also, it is best
to listen to the pre-take-off safety briefing on each flight, as well as all in-flight announcements."
Back To Content List
What is the Best Time to Fly?
Day or night really doesn't matter to the pilots. We can see fine, and we have radar and ATC to help us out.
Night may be just a little smoother near the ground because you don't have the sun's heat to cause convective turbulence.
As far as what time of year to fly, each season has its advantages.
In the winter time the air is normally smoother during take offs and landings. The ground is not heated by the sun as much, and you will therefor
experience less convective turbulence. The air temperatures are also cooler, making the air more dense. This gives the airplane added performance.
The springtime is nice because it signals the end of ice and snow, and temperatures moderate. One can find the views from above to be spectacular.
It is the beginning of thunderstorm season, so you may find yourself making deviations around cumulus cloud build-ups.
To minimize your delays and turbulence, you might consider flying early in the morning before the air has a chance to heat up and create afternoon thunderstorms.
Summertime means no more de-icing delays and fewer delays due to fog depending on what area you are flying in. The jetstream moves north and slows down.
That means the westbound flights will have less headwinds.
Autumn is probably my favorite time to fly. There are normally very few thunderstorms, and very little ice, rain or snow.
The air is generally smoothest during this time of the year with little mountain wave or convective turbulence.
Modern jetliners are far less susceptible to the weather than in the past. The jets can climb quickly up
through the weather and cruise above the majority of the clouds. So no matter how dreary and bleak it is on the ground,
in just a matter of minutes you can be cruising comfortably above a blanket of clouds in the warm sunshine!
Back To Content List
Which Airline is Best to Fly?
A few of the things that people look at when choosing an airline include ticket price, flight times, flight frequency, type of planes, service, and reputation.
Obviously, safety is also a major consideration. When choosing an airline based on safety, here are some things to think about.
You might want to start with the major U.S. airlines. The big guys such as American, Continental, Alaska, Delta, Northwest, and United have been around a long time.
The quality of customer service may vary, but they have the most experience in day-to-day airline operations.
Generally, airlines from western industrialized nations have a better safety record than airlines from less developed nations.
The safety of an airline can be dependent on things suchs as the airline's management, aircraft age, training standards, operating procedures, and proper maintenance.
Big, established airlines have their own meterology departments, training departments, and do their own maintenance.
New or smaller airline up-starts probably don't have these in-house facilities.
An airline with a strong pilot union may also benefit from increased safety. Although I do not wish to get into a political debate about unions.
However, pilot unions work actively to deal with a pilot's concerns about safety. The union will also fight for and enforce work rules to ensure
the crew gets enough rest and has the tools necessary to do the job in the safest manner possible.
This can also apply to flight attendants and mechanics. Beware of airlines who bust their unions to cut costs, this will most likey affect safety.
Here is a listing of pilot unions. ALPA Pilot Union Airlines (American Airlines union is APA)
The bigger the airline, the more likely it will have spare parts, planes, and crews in the event of weather or mechanical disruptions and delays.
A smaller airline or charter company might have trouble juggling its limited resources to come up with spares during cancellations.
You may also wish to consider the financial strength of an airline. Obviously, airlines under the stress of financial woes may not be at quite the optimal levels of safety as an
airline in strong financial shape. Workers may have low morale and equipment might not be quite as good as that of financially strong airlines.
To help balance these facts though, the FAA tends to do more monitoring of airlines who are in trouble.
Generally speaking, commercial travel is extremely safe. But if you are concerned with trying to absolutely optimize your odds,
these are just a few of the things you might consider.
Back To Content List
Overwater Flights
If your flight is an extended overwater flight there are many special procedures, precautions, and regulations which apply.
And if you are flying on a foreign carrier to or from the United States, the FAA regulations and ICAO standards also apply.
ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) establishes the rules and regulations concerning training and licensing of aeronautical personnel,
communication systems, air traffic control, airworthiness requirements for aircraft, aeronautical meteorology, and charts.
These aspects require uniformity on a world-wide scale. Here you will find links to individual country's regulatory agencies: Aviation Regulatory & Government Agencies
Extended overwater flights are required to carry extra fuel, and the aircraft are equipped with high frequency and satellite
communications and navigation. Additional safety, survival, and medical equipment are included with the normal emergency equipment.
The engines are monitored and held to a higher degree of reliability than on domestic airplanes.
Also, maintenance checks are more stringent, often requiring functional check flights before a plane is released.
Additional pilots work on the longer overwater flights, and flights are plotted with "equal time points" to inform the pilots of the closest alternates,
thus keeping the flight within a safe distance of diversion airports in the event of a problem.
The longest overwater flights between diversion points is between the US and Hawaii, about 5 hours. That means in the worst case scenario
the longest time you would be from landing is 2.5 hours. There has been no modern jetliners ending up in the water out there, so try not to worry.
Lots of flights fly over water, it is quite routine.
Plot your overwater route using the "Great Circle" flight planning method. Great Circle Mapper You might be surprised at how close your route will be to land.
By expecting and preparing for the worst the flight crew, dispatch, ICAO, and the FAA are ensuring the best possible outcome if a problem arises.
Back To Content List
Flying While Pregnant
It is important to check in advance with your selected airline regarding special regulations concerning pregnant passengers.
Many airlines have existing regulations that must be followed closely to ensure the safety of you and your baby.
It is important to understand that while airline travel is safe, some special considerations are important to consider while flying during pregnancy.
In 2001, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists released several precautions for pregnant air travelers who suffer from obstetric
and/or medical complications. As stated in this news release, most US airlines permit women to fly up to 36 weeks gestation on domestic flights and
35 weeks gestation for international flights. To prevent unforeseen emergencies, pregnant women should avoid air travel with existing medical or
obstetric complications, such as pregnancy-induced hypertension, poorly controlled diabetes, sickle cell disease, or if they suffer from a significant risk
for premature labor or placental abnormalities (ACOG, 2001). If your personal and pregnant health does not suffer from any complications,
you should do well during flight as long as you make a few precautions to increase your comfort level while on the ground and in the air.
Extended overwater flights are required to carry extra fuel, and the aircraft are equipped with high frequency and satellite
communications and navigation. Additional safety, survival, and medical equipment are included with the normal emergency equipment.
If possible, request a seat in the front of the plane. Obtaining an aisle seat is best, as this gives a little extra room and makes
it easier to get up and walk around during extended flights. The farther you are into your pregnancy will increase the frequency in which
you will need to use the restroom. Sitting in an aisle seat makes frequent restroom visitations much easier. Many air travelers worry about the
formation of blood clots, especially during lengthy flights. Pregnant women are advised to wear support stockings and periodically move their lower legs
to allow for proper blood circulation (ACOG, 2001).
If you are traveling across several time zones, be sure to take into account how this can affect your body.
It is important to get plenty of rest before departing, and plan for extra rest when you reach your destination.
It is a good idea to allow yourself a couple of days to readjust to different time zones. Gradually adjust your bedtimes and mealtimes toward your
destination's time zone. Move these times back in preparation for your return journey, as this will help mitigate the uncomfortable effects
often referred to as jet lag. For some women, making a few proactive, preparative changes is well worth the effort. If possible, motivate your
travel partner to do this as well. You both may tolerate the travel easier by doing so.
Be certain to fly in pressurized aircraft, like commercial jets. Some smaller aircraft that feed into larger airports and most personal
aircraft are not pressurized. Significant changes in pressure at high altitudes may reduce the cabin's level of oxygen that is needed
by you and also by your baby. Low cabin humidity and changes in cabin pressure "may result in an increased heart rate, increased blood pressure
and a significant decrease in breathing capabilities in pregnant women with a weakened cardiovascular system" (ACOG, 2001).
Be sure to ask your travel representative or airline whether you will be traveling in a pressurized aircraft and if there are any
airline-regulated precautions in adjusting to changing cabin pressure for pregnant women. Above all, be sure to advise your attendant and airline
that you are pregnant.
When making arrangements for your air travel, be careful to look at the food menus available. Be sure to pick a meal that is high in protein and allows
you to make healthy choices. You may request special dietary requests ahead of time with most airlines serving in-flight meals. Also pack extra water, and drink
plenty of fluids during your journey. This will counteract the effects of dehydration that results from the drier air in aircraft cabins. Also bring along some
individually wrapped crackers or healthy snacks in the event you need to supplement your airline meal or need something to settle your stomach before, during, or
after your flight.
A seatbelt should be worn continuously throughout the flight. The risk of trauma due to unpredictable turbulence is significant, and wearing your seatbelt
is highly recommended (ACOG, 2001). Fasten the seatbelt so the belt is snug and just below your abdomen. Do not hesitate to ask the flight attendant if you need extra
assistance.
By making just a few modifications to your normal flying routine, you will ensure a safe and comfortable flight during your pregnancy. Leave the rest to the capable and competent flight crew.
References: ACOG, 2001. ACOG News Release: ACOG Addresses Air Travel During Pregnancy.
Joseph Banken, PhD - Assistant Professor, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Back To Content List
Flying with Kids
Flying will be more pleasant if children work off energy before boarding. Use every opportunity to walk and move around before boarding.
Allow plenty of time at the airport for check-in, and connecting flights. Remember how much longer it takes to achieve anything with kids in.
Snap on wheels for infant car seats are a real bonus if you've booked a seat for your infant and he'll be riding in his car seat. They can be taken onto the plane but take the assembly apart before check in to reduce the appearance of bulk. You'll love the convenience of wheels as you move around the airport.
Extended overwater flights are required to carry extra fuel, and the aircraft are equipped with high frequency and satellite
communications and navigation. Additional safety, survival, and medical equipment are included with the normal emergency equipment.
Take a set of reins or a harness for a toddler so that you can let him walk around the terminal - but still keep him close at hand.
Small travel strollers will fit in the luggage bins of 747's or larger aircraft but airlines have become increasingly strict about not allowing
these on board. An infant front pack is really helpful so that you can carry baby while you push a luggage trolley.
Ask if your flight is full when checking in. Some assistants will block out the seat next to you in a less full flight or offer you the option of
seating next to a vacant seat. This is particularly valuable if traveling with a toddler under 24months without a seat. Get on the plane first and off
the plane last to get a better chance of assistance from cabin crew
Always test the temperature of food heated in the aircraft galley before you give it to your child. It is often way too hot! Take your own baby food, bowl and utensils
for an infant. Disposable bibs are a great idea for infant mealtimes on board an airplane.
Disposable bottle liners that are pre-sterilized in a roll are excellent for long plane journeys. Carry a bottle of pre-boiled water with you too, then make up the
bottle in the pre-sterilized bag and ask the attendant to warm it by standing briefly in a bowl of hot water. Ask for bottles and meals to be warmed well in advance of
when you need them. The cabin crew doesn’t have a microwave and have to heat using hot water in the galley. This takes time.
Wrap toys to add to their entertainment value. For older children try the complete Harry Potter cassette tape set.
Get as much relief as you can from the children’s video channels and games. Bring toys out one by one - get maximum use from them, pack them away,
then move on to the next one.
Talk to your doctor before you fly about whether using sedatives is right for your baby or child. Some children travel well with sedatives, others become even
more hyperactive than usual. For bigger children who don't travel well - take along nappy/diaper sacks as sick bags. They tie up to keep the contents in and
the odor neutralizer does help - handy also for storing smelly clothes.
Because airplane bathrooms are small, keep a nappy, small pack of wipes/cotton wool, tube of lotion, lightweight plastic change mat/hand towel, flannel and nappy sack
in a side pocket of your cabin bag. Take only these essential items into the bathroom for each nappy change and restock the side pocket once you have resettled baby.
Due to aircraft air conditioning, dehydration can be a real problem for children. Keep a bottle, sipper or straw cup topped up at all times and
encourage children and infants to take regular drinks.
Cabin pressure changes can affect ears. Children can find this uncomfortable and frightening. Breast or bottle feeding a baby is generally recommended or a drink
from a spout or straw cup for older children. The effects of pressure changes will be felt more acutely if a child has an ear infection. In severe cases it may be
advisable not to fly until the infection has cleared.
Don't take your frustrations and fears out on your children. Traveling should be enjoyable, focus on your destination and you will have a wonderful time.
cyberparent.com
familyfun.go.com
Back To Content List
Additional Resources and Information About Aviation
Airline Travel Advice
Secrets for cheapest airline ticket discounts - Helpful airline travel planning & health tips - Latest airline news.
Click here for Airline Travel Advice
Boeing Aircraft Safety
Commercial airplane accidents are rare events. Nevertheless, a jetliner crash is major news all around the world, often raising anew the question:
How safe is it to fly? This document, produced by The Boeing Company, attempts to answer some common questions about commercial aviation and the effort
to make jet travel even safer than it already is. Boeing Aircraft Safety Page
The Safest Airlines & Airports
Take a look at a FAA report which compares airline accident rates and airport ground incident rates. Airline & Airport safety report.
How Airport Security Works
Millions of people fly every day. The vast majority of them are law-abiding folks who have no intention of harming anyone. But there is always
the possibility that a terrorist or a criminal is hidden among the masses. Also, many people with no intent to cause harm may accidentally carry a
hazardous material onto the plane. To avoid these problems, airport security is an important part of any airport. Read about how airport security works.
Your Passenger Rights
Fly Rights - A Consumer Guide To Air Travel
Airline Quality: Best Airlines, Best Airports
Read quality evaluation audits, competitive performance analysis and comprehensive product and service audits for airlines across the world. Airline Quality
Back To Content List
Fun Aviation Stuff
Flight View Flight Tracker
Enter the flight number and airline and Flight View will give you up-to-date information available based on real time radar data.
It displays the flight's altitude, ground speed, actual departure time and estimated arrival time. It also depicts the flight's route on a radar map which
includes enroute weather displays. In the days leading up to your flight, plug in your flight number and see how the flight proceeds from departure to
destination.
Click here for the Flight View Flight Tracker
Live Aircraft Radio Transmissions!
Hear live tower to aircraft radio transmissions Click Here!
Live Airport Webcams
Airport Webcams
Live (almost) Air Traffic Monitor
Boston Logan Airport
New Orleans
Louisville
Forecast Clear Air Turbulence
Images used to forecast Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT) are produced for North America using data from the National Center for
Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Aviation and ETA forecast models. Clear Air Turbulence Images from the NOAA
Here is another Turbulence Forecast website.
Maybe You Should Become a Pilot!
What a great way to completely conquer your fear of flying! Flying will open up new worlds and new possibilities.
Register for a special introductory flight. Then check the Flight School Database for a participating flight school near you. Become a pilot!
Back To Content List
Planning Your Trip
From the Federal Consumer Information Center. Gives more than 30 steps you can take to help make your flight a safe one.
Aviation professionals are proud of their contributions to aviation's impressive safety record. You, the air traveler, play a very important role in aviation safety.
You can take responsibility for your own safety. Read how to make your safe trip even safer.
Consumer Guide to Air Travel
The Federal Consumer Information Center also has information regarding
- Airfares
- Reservations and Tickets
- Delayed and Canceled Flights
- Overbooking
- Baggage
- Smoking
- Passengers with Disabilities
- Frequent-Flyer Programs
- Contract Terms
- Travel Scams
- Your Health
- Airline Safety
- Consumer Guide to Air Travel
Airline - Aircraft - Airport Codes
This web site has been setup to help you cut through the jungle of all those codes and abbreviations used in and around
the Airline Industry. Whether it be an Aircraft Type Code in a printed timetable or an Airline Code in online Booking system or on your
ticket this site has been designed to help you find out what that code stands for.
Airline Codes
Airport Maps
Use this tool to view maps of most of the big airports. Check out where to park, find your terminal, and view roads and transit systems
leading to the airport.
Airport Maps
Back To Content List
What Other Help is Out There For Your Fear of Flying?
WINGS OF DISCOVERY - A Self-Help Book and Adventure Story rolled into one
Wings of Discovery offers a glimpse into the life of a man who struggles to overcome the fear of flying. Along the way he makes mysterious
new friends who help him build his own small plane and teach him how to fly. Through some exciting and challenging adventures, the character faces his
fears and learns about aviation and the importance of pursuing his passions.
Inspirational...
The story and characters are fictional, but the lessons on life and flying are real.
Entertaining...
Many people are comparing Wings of Discovery with Richard Bach's popular classic, Illusions. A great blend of the art and science of flight,
Wings of Discovery explores the myths and fears that can haunt us all. Join us to discover some of life's secrets on the ground and in the air.
You're number one for takeoff! Fasten your seatbelt and place your tray table in the upright position, this book is a fast paced entertaining read.
Informative...
The book is packed with behind-the-scenes information about the airline industry and the magical wonder of flight. The author
captures the spectacular feeling of flying and shares an appreciation of nature's simple beauties while providing technical information in an interesting
and entertaining fashion. Wings of Discovery will appeal to not only those who fly, but everyone who wants to get the most out of life!
FEAR OF FLYING AUDIO COURSE - Airline Pilot explains everything and talks you through the flight!
You may still feel you could use more in-depth help with your fear of flying. Below is a resource of links including fear of flying books, classes, seminars and virtual reality.
Please let me know if you have any comments or suggestions. -
