For many, air travel is a routine part of life, but for others, it can be a source of anxiety. This anxiety often manifests in preflight rituals, from tapping the airplane's exterior to kissing fingers and touching the logo. Travel expert Gary Leff, author of the blog "View From the Wing," notes this common practice, suggesting it provides a sense of control in a situation where passengers are entrusting their lives to the aircraft and crew.
This ritual, according to Leff, goes beyond mere superstition. It's a way of personifying the aircraft, similar to how one might greet a pet. It's a small gesture of connection to the incredible feat of hurtling through the sky at hundreds of miles per hour. This resonates with Brian Morris, creator of "Flight Deck: Fear Of Flying Flash Cards," who himself battled aerophobia. He admits to engaging in similar rituals for comfort, seeking a sense of protection from the aircraft.
Morris, however, now understands that these actions, while providing psychological comfort, don't actually influence safety. His insights, gained through education about modern aviation, highlight the anxiety-driven nature of these practices. Social media platforms like TikTok reveal a spectrum of responses to these rituals, from active participation to complete bewilderment. Some users share their own practices, like praying for safe arrival, while others express confusion or simply a desire to settle in and enjoy the flight.
The range of rituals extends beyond tapping. Morris points to other common behaviors, such as lifting feet during flight, praying, tapping overhead bins upon landing, and even wearing "lucky" clothing or listening to specific music. These actions, while seemingly insignificant, provide a sense of agency and comfort in the face of anxiety. The prevalence of these practices underscores the psychological complexities of air travel, even in the modern era.
