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Your First Flight: What to Expect

2 min read

The short answer

A first flight can feel daunting simply because everything is new. Knowing what happens at each step — the airport, boarding, take-off, cruise and landing — takes away most of the surprise. Every sound and sensation along the way is a normal part of flying.

New Doesn't Mean Dangerous

Much of first-flight nerves comes from not knowing what to expect. So here's the whole journey, step by step. Nothing in it is unusual — it happens around 110,000 times a day.

At the Airport

Arrive with plenty of time. Check in (often on your phone), drop any bags, and go through security. Then find your gate and relax. Read how to prepare for a flight.

Boarding

Find your seat, put your bag away and fasten your seatbelt. You'll hear a hum — that's a small engine in the tail powering the plane. The crew will show the safety demonstration. It's a routine, like a car's seatbelt — not a sign of danger.

Take-off

The plane taxis to the runway, which can feel bumpy. Then the engines get loud and you're pressed gently into your seat. The nose lifts and you're flying. A thump follows as the wheels fold away. A minute or two later, the engines get quieter — that's planned. Read what happens during take-off.

The Climb and Cruise

The plane keeps climbing for a while, sometimes turning gently. Your ears may pop — swallowing or yawning helps. At cruising height, the seatbelt sign usually goes off. You might feel a few bumps: that's normal air movement. Read understanding turbulence.

Coming In to Land

You'll feel the plane slow and descend, hear the engines change, then whirring as the flaps move and a clunk as the wheels come down. The touchdown can feel firm, followed by a loud roar as the plane slows. All normal. Read the landing sequence.

A Few Tips

  • Tell the crew it's your first flight. They'll look out for you.
  • Bring something to do, downloaded before you fly.
  • Practise slow breathing beforehand: in for four… hold for four… out for six.
  • Ask Avi about any sound or feeling — before or during the flight.

The Takeaway

Your first flight will be full of new sensations, and every one has an ordinary explanation. Once you've done it, you'll know exactly what to expect next time.

Sources

Keep reading

How to Prepare for a Flight When You're Anxious

A step-by-step guide for the days before, the morning of and the hours at the airport — to ease the worry before you fly.

What Happens During Takeoff

A step-by-step explanation of the takeoff sequence — every sound, sensation, and phase explained.

The Landing Sequence Explained

Every sound and feeling as the plane comes down to land, explained in order — so you know exactly what to expect.

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