This is Australia's best airline for nervous flyers - here's why

Say goodbye to flight anxiety by booking with this comforting carrier.

Some of us can’t help it. We white-knuckle the armrest during takeoff. Turbulence hits and our life flashes before our eyes. And when the plane finally touches down, we breathe a sigh of relief. That’s just what it’s like being a nervous flyer.

If you’re vigorously nodding your head in agreement, you’re not alone. But Bounce.com is providing an antidote, revealing which Australian airline is the best for people who think flying is the worst.

Which Aussie airline is best for nervous flyers?

While we’re pretty lucky to have a great range of airlines to choose from in Australia, it doesn’t change the fact that flying can be scary for some. The anticipation of being in the air can even taint the excitement we feel in the lead-up to a holiday. However, opt to fly with Virgin Australia and those nerves should significantly decrease.

Virgin Australia is officially the best Aussie airline for nervous flyers. (Image: Ryan Fletcher)

Recent research conducted by Bounce has shown it’s the best airline in Australia for flight anxiety, with an overall stress-free score of 7.84 out of 10. Determining factors included seat width, safety scores, reviews and in-flight programs, with Virgin Australia receiving an airline review score of four out of five and seven out of seven for its airline safety score.

Everything from loud people, smelly toilets and excessive alcohol consumption to delays, flight cancellations and unfriendly cabin crew was considered. But screaming children and turbulence came out on top, with over 50 per cent of passengers reporting both factors cause increased feelings of anxiety.

“If turbulence makes you anxious, remember that planes are designed to handle it safely,” says Cody Candee, CEO and Founder of Bounce. “Think of it as bumps in the road rather than a sign of danger.”

Why pick Virgin Australia if you’re an anxious flyer?

Virgin Australia was the only Aussie airline that made the list, with its nervous flyer program making it a real stand-out. Available on all flights, the comforting scheme provides a number of soothing benefits to calm nerves and reduce stress before and during the journey.

Not many people know about Virgin Australia’s nervous flyer program. (Image: SCM Jeans)

Those who opt into the program will receive an email one week prior to the flight with a list of helpful travel tips, as well as a text message on the day with some words of wisdom and support. Once on board, cabin crew are already aware of your needs and take extra care throughout the flight to make sure you’re doing okay.

“Talk to the crew if needed,” continues Candee. “Flight attendants are trained to help anxious flyers. Let them know if you’re feeling nervous, and they can offer reassurance and help make your experience smoother.”

You’ll also have full access to guided meditations designed specifically to assist nervous flyers through the Smiling Mind app, plus a range of other behind-the-scenes tactics to ensure your trip is a stress-free as possible. And while it’s scary to think your life is in someone else’s hands (a fully trained and certified professional with a pilot’s license, mind you), many nervous flyers don’t realise they can take some power back, too.

Use in-flight entertainment and personal devices for distraction. (Image: Imgorthand)

“Plan ahead for peace of mind,” encourages Candee. “Knowing what to expect can reduce stress. Choose an airline known for smooth flights and good customer service. Arrive early to avoid last-minute rushes and pick a seat that makes you feel most at ease.”

“Keeping your mind engaged is key. Load your tablet with movies, books or puzzles to distract yourself. With the right mindset and simple tricks, you can turn flying from a stressful experience into a manageable and maybe even enjoyable one,” Candee says.

Let Virgin Australia know you’re nervous eight days before departing. (Image: SCM Jeans)

To join Virgin Australia’s program, all you have to do is identify yourself as a nervous flyer eight days prior to your departure date. This can be done through the guest contact centre or by filling out the airline’s service request form.

Which other airlines made the list?

Singapore Airlines came out on top with an overall stress-free score of 8.94 out of 10, followed by Korean Air with a score of 8.82 out of 10. Next was Cathay Pacific in third place, then Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways and easyJet.

Virgin Australia ranked seventh in the world, succeeded by Virgin Atlantic, British Airways and SWISS, rounding out the top 10.