For many, the thought of soaring through the skies can be a source of significant anxiety. However, for those who find themselves feeling jittery at the mere mention of air travel, there’s good news on the horizon. Virgin Australia has been recognised as one of the ‘best airlines’ in the world for nervous travellers, offering a beacon of comfort in the often stressful world of flying.
Virgin Australia stands out from the crowd with its dedicated nervous flyer program, a unique initiative that provides extra support for anxious travellers. This program is a rarity in the airline industry, with easyJet being the only other carrier to offer a similar service. The program aims to alleviate the fears of nervous flyers through tailored assistance, ensuring a more relaxed and comfortable journey.
The commendation for Virgin Australia comes from a study that surveyed 2,000 travellers to identify the factors that contribute most to their stress levels when flying. The results revealed that screaming children top the list, with 51.6 per cent of participants citing this as a major source of stress. Turbulence followed closely behind at 51.5 per cent, with loud neighbours (46.7 per cent), delays (40.3 per cent), smelly toilets (39.8 per cent), unfriendly cabin crew (34.7 per cent), and overcrowded aisles (33.9 per cent) also making the list.
In this study, Asian airlines took the lead in providing stress-free experiences, with Singapore Airlines claiming the top spot, followed by Korean Air, Cathay Pacific, and Japan Airlines. These airlines were praised for their superior service, which includes factors such as seat width and pitch, cabin crew friendliness, and overall customer satisfaction.
When it comes to physical comfort, Singapore Airlines boasts the largest economy seat width at 47cm, allowing passengers to stretch out and relax. Virgin Australia’s seats are also commendable, with a width of 44cm, ensuring a comfortable space for travellers to unwind.
Cody Candee, CEO and Founder of Bounce, offers some sage advice for those looking to minimise their flight-related stress. He suggests choosing an airline known for smooth flights and excellent customer service. Additionally, he recommends arriving early to avoid the rush, selecting a seat that provides personal comfort, and using relaxation techniques such as deep breathing to manage anxiety. He also emphasises the importance of communicating with flight staff, who can provide assistance and support during the flight.
Other airlines that made it into the top ten include Qatar Airlines in sixth place, Virgin Atlantic in eighth, British Airways in ninth, and SWISS rounding out the list at tenth.
Air travel can be a different experience for everyone—some find it exciting, while others may feel uneasy. With airlines offering various services to enhance passenger comfort, there are many factors to consider when choosing the right carrier for your journey.
What aspects of flying are most important to you? Have you ever tried an airline that made a noticeable difference in your travel experience? We’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to share your experiences in the comments below.
Also read: Seven years and counting—Virgin Australia’s cabin crew reigns supreme
