The prospect of a 13-hour flight in economy class is enough to make even the most experienced travellers shudder with dread. However, I have always cherished long-haul journeys, viewing them as the ideal opportunity to unwind and truly disconnect from the world. Recently, I realised why this is the case: airplanes offer an unexpectedly perfect setting for individuals with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), like myself.
A Personal Diagnosis and Lifelong Struggles
I received my ADHD diagnosis in 2024 at the age of 32, after coping with symptoms throughout my entire life. During my childhood, teachers and parents often labelled me as 'Dolly Daydream,' and old school reports frequently described me as 'absent-minded.' I also constantly misplace or forget items, having lost count of the times I have left bags or even suitcases on trains. On one occasion, I even forgot my passport on an aircraft.
The Epiphany on a Flight to Kuala Lumpur
My revelation about airplanes being a safe haven occurred during a recent trip to Kuala Lumpur. Remarkably, I managed to read an entire novel, The Housemaid, from cover to cover within just three hours of the journey. In everyday life, such focused reading would be unthinkable due to the multitude of distractions. I cannot even watch television without instinctively reaching for my phone. On a plane, however, the absence of internet access eliminates endless scrolling, notifications, and the temptation to multitask.
This is also why I adore watching films while flying. I can fully immerse myself in the storyline without interruptions, unable to pause and search online for where I have seen an actor before. For neurodiverse individuals, flights can be genuinely soothing experiences.
The Calming Effects of White Noise and Reduced Decisions
Aircraft provide a calming auditory backdrop that many passengers overlook: the steady white noise and hum of the engines. With my AirPods in, this background whirr becomes strangely tranquil, quieting my mind and often allowing me to drift off effortlessly. This serenity is especially welcome after navigating the overwhelming hustle and bustle of airports, which typically spike my anxiety levels.
Another, less obvious comfort is the complete removal of decision-making. In daily life, I often carry a low-level guilt about unanswered emails, unfinished tasks, and looming to-do lists. On a flight, my brain finally gets to rest, and it appears I am not alone in this sentiment.
Expert Insight on Neurodiversity and Air Travel
Therapist Sally Baker from Working On The Body explains, 'People frequently discuss fear of flying, but neurodiverse individuals can board an aeroplane and feel completely in their element. Once you are seated, your world shrinks. You have one window, one screen, and one place to be.' This perspective underscores why airplanes can feel like sanctuaries for people like me, offering a rare escape from the constant stimuli and pressures of modern life.
