Are Iowans Scared to Fly? This Study Might Surprise You

I enjoy flying. Usually, it means I'm going somewhere fun, or coming home from a vacation that was, hopefully, memorable. Sure, flying does have stressors, too.

Travel in general can be stressful at times. But it's still important to see the world, and flying can be a necessary evil.

While flight anxiety is a growing concern for many Americans, a new survey shows that Iowans are among the most confident travelers in the country, which may supirse you.

While Americans Are Getting More Nervous, Iowans Are Still Chill

According to the findings from Coventry Direct, just 14% of Iowa residents say they experience a fear of flying, making the Hawkeye State one of the least anxious in the nation.

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For comparison, states like Alabama and Virginia reported flight fears among nearly half their populations.

READ MORE: This Iowa Town is the Place to Go if You're Looking to "Townsize"

There have been several incidents lately with air travel, which is a reason why there have been more apprehensive travelers of late.

Why is Iowa Bucking the Trend?

Experts suggest that lower anxiety in Iowa may be tied to fewer frequent fliers and a more relaxed pace of life.

Iowans may not fly as often, but when they do, they tend to plan ahead and travel for meaningful reasons, like family visits, once-in-a-lifetime vacations, or business trips.

That sense of purpose may help ease travel jitters.

Americans Overall Are More Nervous to Fly

Across the U.S., flight anxiety is on the rise. Nearly three in ten travelers nationwide say they fear flying, and that number has increased sharply from last year.

Concerns about air safety, media coverage of crashes, and even FAA staffing have all contributed to rising stress in the skies.

Still, the survey shows that many travelers, including those in Iowa, are willing to pay extra for peace of mind.

Nearly two-thirds say they’d spend more to fly with an airline that has a perfect safety record.

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As concerns continue to grow, Iowans appear to be keeping calm and flying on, at least for now.

You won't need to hop on a plane to visit these amazing Iowa eateries!