So you're looking at a new job that is going to require you to fly quite often, over long distances.
Or your kids have moved away which means you'll be flying to see them a few times every year.
Whatever the case, you're going to be spending a lot of time in the air.
How do you make the most of it? How do you get beyond staring in a trance at the back of the seat in front of you? For starters, when booking try to arrange your seating so that it is away from any undue noise or distraction.
You don't want to sit near the back of the plane due to the engine noise, and you likely would rather not sit near the restroom.
If at all possible, travel non-stop.
Changing planes and multiple layovers only increase stress, especially if you are dealing with different carriers.
Get to the airport in plenty of time to find decent parking, get to the terminal, go through security, check your baggage, etc.
I personally like to make sure I am in the boarding area a half hour before the boarding process (also known as the cattle call) begins.
Wear comfortable shoes, preferably slip on, as you will be taking them off for security purposes.
Dress comfortably.
I am always amazed at the number of people I see on flights in three piece business suits.
Flying is a close quarters proposition however you look at it, so dress as comfortable as possible for the flight.
Flights do tend to get colder at higher altitudes, so thick socks and a jacket are suggested.
You can't exactly go out and get these items once you are 30,000 feet in the air.
In flight movies are always an enjoyable way to pass the time, provided the airline isn't charging you for the privilege (as one prominent airline did).
Of course the in flight movies can be unintentionally entertaining.
For one flight I was on, the movie was FATAL ATTRACTION.
Once it had been edited for content, I think it ran about 20 minutes.
Move around and stretch for better circulation.
Once you have reached cruising altitude, you may move about the cabin, so take advantage of it.
If you are crossing multiple time zones, jet lag may be a factor.
Get plenty of rest and consider taking a supplement such as "No-Jet-Lag" to reduce the problem.
Bring a book.
I don't read while while riding in a car at all, but I got through two 400 page Stephen King novels on one trans-Atlantic flight.
Enjoy some music.
Many airlines now offer the headphones and a choice of music genres to pick from.
Couple that with an eye mask to blot out the rest of the world and you have the setting for some serious relaxation.
Lose the caffeinated drinks while in the air and opt for water instead.
It will make the long flight much more comfortable.
Ease your seat back for a comfortable resting position.
If you are in coach, just make sure you are not invading the personal space of the guy directly behind you.
It is considered poor form to go to sleep in somebody's lap.
While resting, use the pillow provided to support your back and relieve spinal compression.
Once you arrive, get outside as soon as possible.
Being in sunlight will help diminish jet lag and make you feel more like yourself again.
Be faithful to your carrier.
The more you fly with them, the more you build up frequent flier miles, which can prove invaluable for future trips.
Anticipate that there will probably be issues here or there and be prepared to deal with them.
Flights may be delayed, meals may be less than desirable, and flight attendants can have overworked, bad days just like the rest of us.
Bring along enough diversions to keep you occupied and calm for the duration of the flight, and it will make this portion of your trip much less stressful.
Flying has become progressively more difficult since 9/11, but with proper preparation and some willingness to "roll with the changes", you can make the most out of every flight, and maybe even learn to look forward to the experience.