For many travellers, flying is a gateway to adventure. For others, it’s a source of deep anxiety. And surprisingly, even A-list celebrities aren’t immune. Despite their global careers, some of the world’s most recognisable names suffer from aviophobia, a fear of flying.
So how do these stars manage their fear while juggling international tours, film shoots, and media appearances? Let’s explore how some famous faces handle their fear of flying, and what you can learn from them.
Famous Faces Who Prefer the Ground
Whoopi Goldberg
The legendary actress and comedian avoided flying for many years due to intense anxiety. In 2009, she completed the “Flying Without Fear” program by Virgin Atlantic, which gave her practical tools to approach air travel more calmly. While she still doesn’t fly often, she now does so when absolutely necessary.
Jennifer Aniston
Known for her roles in jet-setting rom-coms, Aniston has admitted that she’s not fond of flying, a fear that reportedly began after a traumatic flight in her youth. Despite this, she continues to fly for work, often with the help of private aviation, which offers a more controlled environment.
Aretha Franklin
The late Queen of Soul famously avoided flying altogether. For much of her career, she opted to travel by bus rather than plane, which unfortunately limited her ability to perform internationally. Her aviophobia was never resolved, but she learned to work around it to continue touring.
Colin Farrell
The Irish actor has spoken openly about his anxiety around flying. Farrell manages his fears with relaxation techniques, deep breathing, and sometimes a glass of wine to help settle his nerves during flights.
Travis Barker
Perhaps the most well-known example, Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker developed a severe fear of flying after surviving a tragic plane crash in 2008. The accident left him with major injuries and claimed four lives. For over a decade, Barker refused to fly, opting for cruise ships and tour buses. Only recently has he begun flying again, supported by therapy and the encouragement of his wife, Kourtney Kardashian.
Why Are So Many People Afraid to Fly?
Aviophobia is surprisingly common, even among frequent travellers. Reasons can include:
- Lack of control: Not being in charge can trigger anxiety.
- Previous traumatic flights: A bad experience can create a lasting fear.
- Overexposure to media: Plane crashes are rare, but their dramatic nature leads to disproportionate media coverage, distorting the perception of risk.
How to Manage a Fear of Flying
If celebrities can work through their flying fears, so can you. Whether you’re preparing for your first flight or trying to rekindle your confidence in the skies, here are some helpful strategies:
Enroll in a Fear of Flying Program
There are several programs in Australia specifically designed to help people manage flight anxiety:
- Qantas Fearless Flyer Program: One of the most recognised programs in Australia, Qantas offers a structured course featuring presentations from pilots, psychologists, and airline crew. The course concludes with a graduation flight where participants put their new skills into practice.More info: qantas.com/fearlessflyer
- Flight Experience Australia – Fear of Flying Course: Based in multiple locations including Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, this course offers access to professional flight simulators, real airline pilots, and personal coaching.More info: flightexperience.com.au
- Flying Without Fear (Virgin Australia): While not currently running in Australia, Virgin Atlantic’s UK-based course (taken by Whoopi Goldberg) has previously inspired similar offerings locally. Keep an eye on announcements for updates or partnerships.
Learn How Planes Work
Understanding the physics behind flight, the reasons for turbulence, and the comprehensive training pilots undergo can ease irrational fears.
Try Relaxation Techniques
Apps like Calm, Smiling Mind (Australian-based), and Headspace offer breathing exercises and meditations specifically designed for anxious travellers. These can help calm your body before and during a flight.
Consider Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective treatment for phobias. Many psychologists in Australia now offer remote sessions, making it more accessible than ever.
Control What You Can
Book flights at times of day when you’re least anxious, choose aisle seats for freedom of movement, and limit caffeine or alcohol. Comfort and routine can significantly reduce pre-flight jitters.
Fear Doesn’t Have to Ground You
Celebrities might seem like they have it all together, but even the biggest stars deal with real human fears, including the fear of flying. Fortunately, many have found ways to manage their anxiety and keep doing what they love.
If you’ve been avoiding travel because of flying anxiety, there are real, effective steps you can take, and support is available, especially here in Australia. Whether it’s learning how turbulence works, speaking to a therapist, or signing up for a fear of flying course, there are options for every type of traveller.
Do You Struggle with Aviophobia?
We’d love to hear your experience. Have you taken a course, found a relaxation hack that works, or simply want to share your story? Leave a comment below and join the conversation.
