First Time Flying

[Musicman408]

My dad and I are vacationing in Sanibel, Florida in middle-end May, and of course we'll be flying. I have never flown before, and was just wanting to get your experiences on the matter. I am looking forward to it- not too nervous, just curious I guess!!

[jannieC]

What exactly do you want to know? Have any of your friends flown?

[StreetAngel95]

Wow, you've never flown before Ethan? I love it - the whole atmosphere and the fact that you're flying over the world. Make sure to bring gum so you can pop your ears! My dad always makes fun of me because i'm the only one in the whole flight who gets excited about the teeny tiny turkey sandwich they give you on Continental Flights...hehe, they're sooo good! The only thing i don't like about flying is the landing. I always feel like the plane won't stop and we'll crash, but it's fine! Have fun on your trip!:thumbsup:

[Ghost_Tracker]

I love flying, I really do. :)

When I was a little kid my Dad had two single-engine Cessna propeller planes - he paid for them by renting them out to people over the weekends, etc. Then the prices of both the airplane fuel and the insurance went up much higher at the same time, that he pretty much had to get rid of them at that point. But it was awesome while it lasted.
We also have a small airport near my house - both for propeller planes and small jets (up to about 727s, I guess). Sometimes the noise is a pain but for the most part, it's sort of "hand-in-hand" with loving planes. Sometimes I STILL get a kick out of watching them take off! One thing's for sure, when you're actually on the plane, you learn what real power is. Not this whimpy stuff like Chevrolet Corvettes or Mack Trucks - - - These engines have some SERIOUS power that they can deliver!!! :]

[FMlex]

I love flying!

My first flight was in 2005 (I was 15) and it was direct from Houston to Honolulu.
That's a nine hour flight so you can imagine I was pretty nervous. But it turned out I loved it!

I like being in small spaces, eating little pretzels (and yes, those turkey sandwiches on Continental are so good!) and listening to music/reading. No really, I do.

I fly quite a bit, and the only thing I hate is how you're not on your own schedule. I'd much rather drive somewhere than fly there because I can leave when I want, stop when I want, take as much luggage as I want, etc.
But I like it and Continental has been good to me these last couple of years. :)

If there's some turbulence, I wouldn't recommend looking out if your seat is the window seat right behind the wing. You see the wing bouncing around and it kind of makes your stomach upset. At least it did for me haha.

[LikeAWillow]

Unlike a lot of things in life, your first time is almost always the best. Flying is still exciting at that point and not just a hassle that you have to go through to get to an end goal. Enjoy it while it lasts!

[holidayroad]

I was 14, almost 15 when I went on the first flight I remember. (I had been in a plane before but was only 2) I loved flying! I would easily get carsick so I hated it when we had to drive long distances. I didn't feel sick at all in the plane. Once we were up,I could barely even tell we were moving. It was a long flight (West Virginia to Oregon) but I really enjoyed it.

[Ghost_Tracker]

Oh, before I forget, here's a couple of tips - - -

1.) Don't forget to bring I.D. Sounds silly to mention it, I mean, I know it's probably obvious - - - But still, if you do forget it, you could end up totally screwed. And make sure you don't lose it while you're down there, because that could cause a REAL hassle for the flight back.

2.) Think a bit carefully about how many bags you're going to bring, and what size and weight. These days, of course, there's restrictions on how many carry-ons you can have, and they're starting to charge for those. And I believe they're charging based on the total weight of all your bags, as well. So maybe look it up for your specific airline on the net, and see if you can save some money there. (1 large bag instead of 2 smaller ones, for example - - stuff like that.) And really, do be careful about putting valuables in your luggage. 5 or 6 years ago, my parents had gone on a plane trip, and they both put their new cell phones in their luggage. I had kind of cautioned them against doing that. Well, it turned out I was right - - - One of them had their cell phone stolen out of their luggage.

3.) I think maybe they've relaxed about it a little bit; but just the same, the earlier you get there, the better. 2 hours before the flight leaves might not be such a bad idea. And remember to leave time for traffic when driving to the airport.

4.) Remember that these days there's restrictions at times concerning "moving about the cabin," as they say. Translation: Don't drink too much coffee and soda, etc., you might be trapped in your seat for more than an hour, unable to use the bathroom. That would spoil the fun of the flight for you.

5.) DEFINITELY try to get a window seat if you can! :D .... :thumbsup:

[daniellaaarisen]

I love very few things more than flying. I seriously adore plane flights. I look forward to them more than the actual trip most the time.

Then again, I'm extremely strange.

[LukeA]

I fly all the time, but I resent just about everything regarding air travel. The combined monotony/lack-of-consistency amongst the TSA security checkpoints in this country is a major buzzkill right there. As for the actual flight experience- if I could have even a couple inches more legroom and a slightly bigger seat (and don't say "first class"- such a ripoff), I'd fly a whole lot more. US Airways is on my ****list these days, but that's not appropriate here (may/may not be a JTIS, not sure)

But the actual physical experience of flying? Unless you have a pre-existing phobia, no big deal. It is, in 2010, pretty unusual to be ~20 and flying for the first time, though. Why did it take you so long to explore the world outside Kentucky? (ironically, my very first airplane flight- in 1987- was to Kentucky. Ha!)

[ILoveFM]

The first time I flew I hyperventilated and was handed a paper bag lol. I flow several times after. It's a bit scary at first, but then traveling is so much faster flying, so I do prefer it to long car rides.

[LukeA]

With how infinitesimally rare air fatalities are, I think it takes a pretty massive ego to think/assume/fear that your plane- the one you're on- is going to crash. At some point, there's an element of ego involved, even if its on a subconscious level. Get over yourself!

(and, ILoveFM- this shouldn't be taken as a direct response to you- its just more an addendum of what I was saying before :) )

[ILoveFM]

With how infinitesimally rare air fatalities are, I think it takes a pretty massive ego to think/assume/fear that your plane- the one you're on- is going to crash. At some point, there's an element of ego involved, even if its on a subconscious level. Get over yourself!

(and, ILoveFM- this shouldn't be taken as a direct response to you- its just more an addendum of what I was saying before :) )

Well the first time I flew it was to New York and I was so terrified to fly there after 9/11. After take off, I was able to relax and enjoy the flight. I've had bad experiences with flying, but I don't hate it. It's really cool to see the world from that height.

[vivfox]

I flow several times after.


Well they always say "go with the flow" so I think he'll be safe and sound.

[Sahara]

Unlike a lot of things in life, your first time is almost always the best. Flying is still exciting at that point and not just a hassle that you have to go through to get to an end goal. Enjoy it while it lasts!
My thoughts precisely!

The magic has really worn off for me (Ireland to Australia does that to you) and I hate taking off but I love landing. I don't know why, but I love the moment of hitting the ground and the ferocity and roughness of it.

[Musicman408]

Thanks for all of the great tips and suggestions guys.

Just to clarify, I have most definitely been far outside of Kentucky, we have always just taken road trips. I've been as far north as Canada, and as far south as Daytona Beach.

[ButterCookie]

*resists urge to sing Daytona Demon*

I like flying but the pressure hurts my ears an insane amount.

[Sleepless-Child]

Am I the only one with a flying phobia ? It's terrifying.

[HejiraNYC]

Am I the only one with a flying phobia ? It's terrifying.

Nope. I've flown a lot, but I never get used to it. Although it's obvious that air travel is enabled by the wonders of engineering and physics, there is a part of me that believes that it's just. plain. wrong. People were not born with wings and a gazillion-ton metal cylinder just should not be flying above the clouds... I don't think my mind will ever adapt to that concept. I definitely need to be medicated to calm my nerves.

[jaycee]

I'm a bit indifferent to flying myself. :shrug: The seats are a bit crampy and the window's small, although what you can see of the outside is pretty amazing - being above clouds is really something else! :nod: Also, take off and landing are always a bit of fun, although rather noisy! :)

[holidayroad]

Am I the only one with a flying phobia ? It's terrifying.

I love it, but my husband is terrified! I try to tell him that crashes are extremely rare, but he still won't get on a plane. To me, I'd rather get on a plane than in a car any day!

[jaycee]

I love it, but my husband is terrified! I try to tell him that crashes are extremely rare, but he still won't get on a plane. To me, I'd rather get on a plane than in a car any day!

Statistically speaking, a sensible choice! :D (I think... :shrug: I can't think of where there is any evidence for my assertion...)

[HejiraNYC]

Statistically speaking, a sensible choice! :D (I think... :shrug: I can't think of where there is any evidence for my assertion...)

The odds of being killed on a single trip in an airliner accident is 52.6 million:1. The odds are lower for smaller aircraft.

Source: NTSB Accidents and Accident Rates by NTSB Classification 1995-2004 DOT Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) 1995- 2004

So if you die in a plane crash, you've basically hit the lottery.

[jaycee]

The odds of being killed on a single trip in an airliner accident is 52.6 million:1. The odds are lower for smaller aircraft.

Source: NTSB Accidents and Accident Rates by NTSB Classification 1995-2004 DOT Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) 1995- 2004

So if you die in a plane crash, you've basically hit the lottery.

Thank you kindly!
(Just as in physics, a theorist is always well complimented by a willing experimentalist! :D)

[ragrsrocalot]

I enjoy flying. Especially taking off. I guess it's the speed, and seeing the ground getting further away. Anyway, bring some good tunes, close your eyes, and enjoy the ride. It's fun, you'll enjoy it.:thumbsup:

[Sleepless-Child]

I love it, but my husband is terrified! I try to tell him that crashes are extremely rare, but he still won't get on a plane. To me, I'd rather get on a plane than in a car any day!

Yeah, you're right. I know it's stupid, but I can't help. And there's a part of me that says "well, If I have a car accident, I still can manage to survive... somehow...but a crash.." !
And that's a real problem for me, because I love travelling. And 2 days-road-trips-without-any-stop aren't fun.

[1sttimelongtime]

I used to enjoy flying, until I read the transcript of the Swissair flight that went down off Nova Scotia. Then I watched a few too many of the Why Planes Go Down, parts I, II and III and vowed never to set foot on a plane again.

This vow lasted from 1996 to Fleetwood Mac's European tour in October. Luckily I found out that a friend of a friend was a pilot and I grilled him about why planes go down. He went over several well known crashes and explained exactly why they happened. He really set my mind at ease and I was not too panic stricken on the way to London, and I really enjoyed the flight back. I will not hesitate to fly again. Now if FM would just up and go back on tour!!!

[DavidMn]

I didnt fly until 1997. I had a terrible fear of Flying for a very long time. But I finally took the plunge and now Ive pretty much been all around the world. Ethan it'll be fine!:thumbsup:

[fringed n fab]

Thanks for all of the great tips and suggestions guys.

Just to clarify, I have most definitely been far outside of Kentucky, we have always just taken road trips. I've been as far north as Canada, and as far south as Daytona Beach.

If you're flying from KY you should be in FL in no time. I wouldn't be against flying if I had to, but much prefer to stay on the ground. At least you stand a chance at surviving a car crash when on ground and I dont want to "go" on a plane. I've watched Passengers with Anne Hathaway too many times and I do believe in that stuff.

[Musicman408]

Just a question- I'm not really a fan of gum chewing, so do you have any suggestions on what to do on takeoff and stuff with regards to my ears? Thanks!!!

[LukeA]

Just a question- I'm not really a fan of gum chewing, so do you have any suggestions on what to do on takeoff and stuff with regards to my ears? Thanks!!!

There are any number of things that can generate saliva/facilitate swallowing, etc. to accommodate changes in pressure. Mints, etc. Not a problem.

[HomerMcvie]

I've heard an ice pick does wonders....;)

[Musicman408]

So after much wrangling and changing of plans, everything if finally booked and official!!! My dad and I will by flying, leaving at 5 PM Friday the 21st. We arrive in Orlando, stay there for the night, then drive to our condo, which is listed below:

http://www.vrbo.com/262431

I'm excited because this is the first time we've been to Florida in 3 years, and vacation in two- and because of my persistence, it's happening. It'll also be my first time flying- so hopefully the mints will do the trick. Honestly, the thing I'm worried most about the flying is my ears. Obviously, I'm pretty comfortable and looking forward to it!!!

Just thought you all might like to know.

[ButterCookie]

Could that not have gone in the First Time Flying thread? :shrug:

[Musicman408]

I don't even know why I try half of the time.:distress:

[ButterCookie]

I'm not being intentionally nasty, I'm just saying :shrug: Sounds like you'll have fun though. I'd love to come to the US

[Musicman408]

I'm not being intentionally nasty, I'm just saying :shrug: Sounds like you'll have fun though. I'd love to come to the US

I'm sorry- it's just been an extremely busy and stressful day and week with finals, and making this vacation get in line hasn't been easy. I just need to go smoke a joint like a rock and roll hippie.

[mylittledemon]

I can only imagine, after all that grief, that your family vacations would be like being with the Griswolds. ;)

[fringed n fab]

Enjoy your time down here! It's been hot and sunny and perfect beach weather and Gov. Crist was saying on the news today that our beaches are clean and fine, so here's hoping they stay that way.

[LikeAWillow]

Ethan, I'm really not trying to be bitchy, I know finals time is really stressful, I just have to say....

I thought this was going to be a thread about your dad going to prison :laugh:

Swear to God. Everything is booked- my dad and my vacation. It made my day a little.

[MissLadyLoki]

Lucky! I have to wait till next Tuesday to go to Florida and even then, I have to spend 3 days at my grandparents' condo near West Palm Beach (I just hope I can hear afterwards lol) and then, it's onto the fun at Disney World.

[Musicman408]

Sorry I made you all think my dad was going to prison!!! ;) Less than two weeks away!!!

[BTFLCHLD]

book'em danno :rolleyes:

should you look out the window to see a trail of white, that's just another plane flying about the same speed. YIKESSSSSSSSS!

[Musicman408]

For those of you keeping score at home- my dad and I fly out tomorrow at around 5:20 PM EST!

[JWS]

Just belt down a couple of martinis and you'll be fine. :laugh:

[DefDumbandBlond]

It's really not a big deal at all. When you are taking off of course the plane is speeding up and you lean back and it's a tad bumpy but afterwards its nothing.

[Enchanted_Stevi]

Unlike a lot of things in life, your first time is almost always the best. Flying is still exciting at that point and not just a hassle that you have to go through to get to an end goal. Enjoy it while it lasts!

Not for me lol My first time flying was when I went to Disney in March. I threw up on the landing. I was SOOO light-headed and dizzy on the way there. But on the way back I took some motion sickness stuff(Bonine) and I felt fine on the way home.

[Enchanted_Stevi]

Just a question- I'm not really a fan of gum chewing, so do you have any suggestions on what to do on takeoff and stuff with regards to my ears? Thanks!!!

My ears didnt really pop when I flew...They mostly got clogged like when you blow ur nose and u gotta yawn in order to unclog them. Yea that. I mostly yawned to unclog them. Gum didnt do much other than calm my nerves lol