For some people, flying is just one stage of the journey; for others, it means hours of tension. Whether you are going on holiday, leaving to work abroad or coming home for the holidays, a prayer for a plane journey helps you board with a lighter heart and entrust your journey to God. Below you will find short prayers for flying, for moments of turbulence and for loved ones who are travelling, plus practical advice for fear of flying.
Why we pray before a flight
The aeroplane is one of the safest means of transport, but the fact that we have no control up there easily awakens fear. Prayer does not replace the work of the pilots and the crew; it shifts your attention from “what if something happens” to trust: you do your part and leave the rest in God’s care. In the Orthodox tradition there are, in fact, prayers and services for travellers, which the priest can read before a long journey.
Prayer before a flight
A prayer in your own words (suggested by us, not a liturgical text):
Lord Jesus Christ, I entrust this flight to You. Bless the pilots, the crew members and everyone working so that we arrive safely. Give us calm skies, a take-off and a landing free from danger. Send my Guardian Angel to accompany me and bring me safe and sound to those who are waiting for me. Amen.
You can say these words at the gate or after taking your seat, followed by the Lord’s Prayer and the prayer to the Guardian Angel. Many believers also discreetly make the sign of the cross at take-off.
Prayer when you are afraid of flying or there is turbulence
When the plane shakes, breathe deeply and slowly, and say in the rhythm of your breathing:
Lord, You are with me here too, up high. Calm my heart, as You calmed the sea in the storm. I place myself in Your care. Amen.
The short prayer “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me”, repeated slowly, is a support always at hand. Many travellers also read Psalm 90 (Psalm 91 in some Bibles), the psalm of protection. If your fear is strong and stops you from travelling, it is worth talking to a psychologist as well: there are effective therapies for fear of flying. You will find more words for moments of fear in the article on prayer for anxiety and fear.
Prayer for a loved one who is flying
Lord, protect (name) on this journey. Be with him in the sky and on the ground, give him a calm flight and bring him safely to his destination. And give me peace until he lets me know that he has arrived. Amen.
Prayer of thanksgiving after landing
Glory to You, Lord, that I have arrived safely. Bless the days ahead and the journey home. Amen.
The patron saints of travellers
- Saint Nicholas the Hierarch – honoured for centuries as the protector of travellers and of those at sea;
- The Holy Archangel Raphael – who, according to the Book of Tobit, accompanied young Tobias on his journey and brought him back safe and sound;
- The Holy Prophet Elijah – taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire, he is regarded in tradition as the protector of aviators (celebrated on 20 July);
- The Guardian Angel – the companion of each one of us.
Practical tips for a calmer flight
- Prepare in good time, so you do not add the stress of rushing.
- Ask a priest for a blessing before a long journey.
- Take a small icon or a prayer rope with you.
- Breathe slowly: inhale for four counts, exhale for six.
- Avoid too much coffee before the flight if it makes you more agitated.
For some travellers, a familiar scent brings calm: a few suitable essential oils, used discreetly on a tissue, taking into account your fellow passengers and the airline’s rules. And if you feel that fear and anxiety accompany you in everyday life as well, the Unbinding for Mind & Wellbeing collection can support you.
Frequently asked questions
What prayer should I say before a flight?
You can say the prayer above, the Lord’s Prayer and the prayer to the Guardian Angel. If you have time, also read Psalm 90.
Which saint protects flying?
Tradition honours the Holy Prophet Elijah as the protector of aviators, and Saint Nicholas and the Archangel Raphael as protectors of travellers.
What do I do if I am very afraid of flying?
Pray briefly and often, breathe slowly and tell the crew that you are nervous: they are used to helping. If fear stops you from travelling, a psychologist can help you in concrete ways.
Can I pray for my child’s flight?
Of course. Say their name in prayer, ask the Guardian Angel to accompany them and give a list of names at church for a good journey.
