The fear of flying affects about one in six people, but a new study suggests that the anxiety associated with air travel does not match the actual risk. The research indicates that the risk of dying in a car accident is 626 times greater than the risk of dying in a plane accident. This disparity between the perception of danger and statistical reality reveals that many people worry disproportionately about air travel. The study analyzes how the fear of flying has become a common phenomenon in today's society, despite being statistically much safer than driving. This information can help people with a fear of flying understand that their concerns are unfounded when compared to the real dangers of the roads.
Science
Why you should be more afraid of driving than flying: the risk of dying in a car accident is 626 times greater
SAPO Notícias13 September 2026 at 15:00
Why this matters
The article provides statistical data that can help people with a fear of flying to better contextualize their fears, potentially encouraging them to consider that air transport is significantly safer than road transport. This information addresses a common anxiety and can influence travel decisions based on facts rather than exaggerated risk perceptions.
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