Would I Fly Out of Newark Today? Yes — And Here’s Why.

By Su-The Flying Psychotherapist

With the recent headlines about air traffic controller staffing issues and weather-related delays at Newark Airport (EWR), I’ve had many people reach out and ask:“Would you fly out of Newark right now?”

My answer? Yes. Absolutely. Without hesitation.

Let me explain why.

I’ve Been There — And I Still Trust It

As a former flight attendant and now a psychotherapist who works with individuals who have a fear of flying, I don’t take these concerns lightly. I spent over two decades flying across the globe, and I’ve seen firsthand the level of care, caution, and coordination that goes into every flight. Today, I still keep in close contact with friends and former crew members who are actively flying for various airlines — many of them clocking over 120 hours a month in the sky.

When I ask them how they’re doing flying in and out of Newark right now, their answer is unanimous:They feel safe. The system is working.

No one — and I mean no one — in the aviation world would board a flight if they felt unsafe. Pilots, flight attendants, and air traffic professionals are highly trained, deeply experienced, and above all, human. These are our sons, daughters, partners, friends. Their safety matters just as much as yours.

The News Will Trigger Anxiety — That’s Normal

I get it. The news cycle is fast, often fear-driven, and doesn’t always give the full picture. It’s easy to spiral into “what ifs,” especially when your brain is already wired for anxiety.

But here’s a truth I want you to hold onto:Aviation is the most regulated, safety-driven industry in the world.Newark Airport — like every major hub — would not allow a plane to take off unless every layer of the system said it was safe.

Challenge the Thought: “It’s Not Safe to Fly”

Let’s use a simple CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) strategy here:

Automatic Thought:“It’s not safe to fly out of Newark because of what I heard on the news.”

Challenge the Thought:

• What’s the evidence for and against this thought?

• Have planes continued flying safely? Yes.

• Are professionals still flying in and out of Newark every day? Yes.

• Would pilots or flight attendants ever knowingly fly in unsafe conditions? Never.

Reframed Thought:“Newark has safety protocols in place. The news triggered my fear, not the actual facts.”

DBT Reminder: Emotions Aren’t Facts

Fear is valid, but it doesn’t always tell the truth.Try this DBT Check-the-Facts skill next time anxiety creeps in at the gate:

• What am I feeling?

• What triggered this feeling?

• Is there concrete evidence I’m in danger, or is this an emotional response to uncertainty?

Now try a radical acceptance mantra:“I feel anxious right now. That’s okay. I’m still safe.”

The Bottom Line

I would fly out of Newark today. And tomorrow.Because I trust the system, the people who dedicate their lives to aviation safety, and the layers of backup in place.

To anyone feeling overwhelmed or unsure:You’re not alone. Your fear doesn’t make you weak — it means you care. But don’t let distorted thoughts keep you grounded from the life you want to live.

The sky hasn’t changed. Newark is still safe. You can still fly.

And if you need help navigating the anxiety that comes with flying, I’m here.

With grounded truth and wings of compassion, Su, The Flying Psychotherapist