And even if the flight environment doesn’t affect you, it’s still possible to have a panic attack while you happen to be on a plane.

“My favorite coping mechanism for an oncoming panic attack is to shock your system with cold water,” Gitlin said.

“A lot of times the stifling air or tight seats or warmth in a plane can induce some of the physiological discomfort associated with a panic attack, which is feeling hot flushed, sweaty palms, heart racing,” said Sue Varma, a psychiatrist in New York.

“Adopting a present-focused, nonjudgmental stance on the flight is a very useful skill when experiencing panic,” Chapman said.

“These are super specific to each individual and can sound like, ‘I can do things I am afraid of and have survived every flight I’ve been on,’” Gitlin said.

“This involves identifying the thoughts that are leading to panic, but also recognizing the truth about panic,” Chapman said.

Some evidence-based thoughts that could decrease the heightened sensations and feelings associated with panic attacks include: “temporary confinement is not being trapped;” “this too shall pass;” “ride the wave;” and “these symptoms are uncomfortable but not dangerous.” Chapman suggested declaring these thoughts in a matter-of-fact tone in your head or quietly out loud.

“Many people travel with a prescribed dose of short-acting benzodiazepine,” Varma said.

You can take anxiety medication before your flight or just keep it on hand in case you start to feel a panic attack coming on

“I find that many people don’t even end up taking the medication at the moment, but feel a degree of comfort knowing it is there if they need it,” Gitlin said

Before you travel, try thinking about what might bring you comfort if you start to feel a sense of panic during the flight

“Generally speaking, I like to tell people prone to panic attacks to get an aisle seat, pay extra for legroom, get to the airport earlier, book a flight during non-peak hours, do whatever you can to make your trip less stressful to begin with,” Varma added