Claustrophobic flyer - would flying first class in a smaller plane or coach on a larger one make a difference?
I'm a claustrophobic flyer and want to take my first flight in years. I figure it's time to get past this.
My question for others who may have the same fears and who have flown first class on a smaller plane (think Embraer E175) and coach on a larger (737 class) plane - which felt more claustrophobic? While the idea of first class space sounds like a good idea, I'm a very tall person and am afraid the smaller confines of the smaller E175 might be an issue. I've never flown on a smaller jet.
Any help would be appreciated!
Best Answer
It'll depend on why you're claustrophobic.
If it's due to seat space, being in confined areas, narrow cramped seats, surrounded by other (potentially stressed) travellers, then first class might be a good idea.
If it's due to the idea of being in a (sorry) flying tin can, then it's probably not going to make much difference, and you could spend the extra money on a relaxing massage or something post flight.
The advantage of a larger plane is probably more stability and less turbulence, if that helps at all. A small plane could get buffeted around a bit more.
I know fears don't usually get affected by logic, but if it helps at all, flying is incredibly safe, and a colleague who went on a course to get over fear of flying concentrated on the fact that if he could get on a bus in rush hour, he could get on a safer plane. Doesn't make it much easier, but it may help.
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Answer 2
The smaller plane is an issue for me. The smaller the aircraft, the more I feel tight and trapped. This is partly due to the fact that is is easier to see the plane as an enclosed space when it is only 2 seat wide compared to 10.
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