19 Best Songs About Flying and Planes

Flying and planes have always been a source of fascination and wonder for people all around the world. Whether it’s the breathtaking view from the airplane window, the excitement of takeoff and landing, or the thrill of exploring new places, the experience of flying has inspired countless songs over the years.
From classic rock anthems to pop ballads, there are many iconic songs that celebrate the joys and sorrows of air travel. These songs range from nostalgic odes to the golden age of aviation to more modern reflections on the ups and downs of modern air travel.

In this list, we have compiled the 19 best songs about flying and planes, each offering a unique perspective on the wonder and magic of flight. Some of these songs celebrate the freedom and exhilaration of soaring through the skies, while others reflect on the longing and sadness that comes with saying goodbye to loved ones and familiar places.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or simply someone who loves the idea of taking to the skies, these songs are sure to transport you to new heights and inspire a sense of wonder and adventure. So sit back, relax, and let these songs take you on a musical journey through the clouds.

1. ‘Sunset (Bird of Prey)’ by Fatboy Slim

‘Sunset (Bird of Prey)’ by Fatboy Slim:
Released in 2000, ‘Sunset (Bird of Prey)’ is an electronica track by British DJ and producer Fatboy Slim. The song features a driving beat with prominent guitar riffs and a vocal sample from the Jim Morrison poem ‘Bird of Prey.’ The track builds with layered percussion and synths, creating a danceable and energizing atmosphere. The music video features footage of various birds of prey, complementing the song’s title and Morrison’s poetic imagery.

2. ‘Learning to Fly’ by Pink Floyd

‘Learning to Fly’ by Pink Floyd:
‘Learning to Fly’ is a song from Pink Floyd’s 1987 album ‘A Momentary Lapse of Reason.’ The track features a soaring guitar riff and lyrics about the process of growth and self-discovery. The song’s message is conveyed through the metaphor of learning to fly, with lyrics like “Tongue-tied and twisted just an earthbound misfit, I” and “Coming down is the hardest thing.” The music video features footage of the band performing the song and various images related to aviation, further emphasizing the song’s themes.

3. ‘Amelia’ by Joni Mitchell

‘Amelia’ by Joni Mitchell:
‘Amelia’ is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, released on her 1976 album ‘Hejira.’ The song is a tribute to aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, who disappeared over the Pacific Ocean during an attempt to fly around the world in 1937. Mitchell weaves Earhart’s story into her own personal journey, with lyrics like “Maybe I’ve never really loved, I guess that is the truth, I’ve spent my whole life in clouds at icy altitudes.” The song features Mitchell’s signature intricate guitar work and poetic lyrics.

4. ‘Free Bird’ by Lynyrd Skynyrd

‘Free Bird’ by Lynyrd Skynyrd:
‘Free Bird’ is a Southern rock classic by American band Lynyrd Skynyrd, released in 1974. The song is known for its iconic guitar solos and emotional lyrics about longing for freedom and escape. The song begins with a slow ballad section before transitioning into a fast-paced, guitar-driven finale. The song has become a staple of classic rock radio and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The song’s poignant message and guitar work have solidified its status as a timeless rock classic.

5. ‘Come Fly with Me’ by Frank Sinatra

‘Come Fly with Me’ by Frank Sinatra:
‘Come Fly with Me’ is a classic song by American singer Frank Sinatra, released in 1958. The song features a swinging, upbeat melody and lyrics about traveling the world and experiencing new adventures. The song has become a classic in the Great American Songbook and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The song’s catchy chorus and Sinatra’s smooth vocals make it an enduring favorite of fans of jazz and big band music.

6. ‘Jet Airliner’ by Steve Miller Band

Jet Airliner’ by Steve Miller Band:
‘Jet Airliner’ is a rock song by American band Steve Miller Band, released in 1977. The song features a funky guitar riff and lyrics about the freedom and excitement of travel. The song’s memorable chorus, “Big old jet airliner, don’t carry me too far away,” has become an anthem for wanderlust and adventure. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a classic of 70s rock music. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a favorite of classic rock fans.

7. ‘Learning to Fly’ by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

‘Learning to Fly’ by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers:
‘Learning to Fly’ is a song by American rock band Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, released in 1991. The song features a catchy guitar riff and lyrics about persevering through difficult times and learning to let go. The song’s message is conveyed through the metaphor of learning to fly, with lyrics like “I’m learning to fly but I ain’t got wings” and “Well, some say life will beat you down, break your heart, steal your crown.” The song’s memorable melody and uplifting message have made it a favorite of Tom Petty fans.

8. ‘The Zephyr Song’ by Red Hot Chili Peppers

“The Zephyr Song” is a single from Red Hot Chili Peppers’ eighth studio album, “By the Way,” released in 2002. The song features a blend of soft rock and psychedelic pop elements, with a catchy melody and soothing vocals from lead singer Anthony Kiedis. The lyrics are open to interpretation but are often seen as a tribute to the beauty and mystery of life, with references to the wind and the sky. The song was a commercial success, charting in several countries and earning positive critical reviews.

9. ‘Jet’ by Paul McCartney and Wings

“Jet” is a classic rock hit by Paul McCartney and Wings, released in 1974. The song features a distinctive guitar riff and driving rhythm, with McCartney’s energetic vocals leading the way. The lyrics are playful and lighthearted, telling the story of a girl who wants to “get away” and have some fun. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it a fan favorite, and it remains a staple of classic rock radio to this day.

10. ‘Eight Miles High’ by The Byrds

“Eight Miles High” is a song by American rock band The Byrds, released in 1966. It is considered one of the first psychedelic rock songs, with its intricate guitar work, surreal lyrics, and unconventional structure. The song was inspired by the band’s experiences on a tour of England, and its lyrics are often interpreted as a commentary on the experience of being high. “Eight Miles High” was controversial at the time of its release due to its drug references, but it has since become a classic of 1960s rock music.

11. ‘Learning to Fly’ by Foo Fighters

“Learning to Fly” is a song by American rock band Foo Fighters, released in 1996. The song features a catchy guitar riff, driving drums, and frontman Dave Grohl’s signature raw vocals. The lyrics are introspective and relatable, describing the experience of learning to navigate life’s challenges and find one’s place in the world. “Learning to Fly” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Song.

12. ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ by Frank Sinatra

“Fly Me to the Moon” is a classic song performed by American singer Frank Sinatra, originally released in 1964. The song features a smooth jazz arrangement and Sinatra’s trademark crooning vocals, as he sings about the desire to fly away with a loved one and explore the stars. The song has since become a jazz standard and has been covered by countless artists, including Tony Bennett, Diana Krall, and Michael Bublé.

13. ‘Flight 505’ by The Rolling Stones

“Flight 505” is a song by British rock band The Rolling Stones, released in 1966 on their album “Aftermath.” The song features a driving rhythm and catchy guitar riffs, with frontman Mick Jagger delivering a dynamic vocal performance. The lyrics tell the story of a man trying to track down a woman he met on a plane, with Jagger’s vocals conveying a sense of urgency and desperation. “Flight 505” is often cited as one of the highlights of “Aftermath” and remains a fan favorite among Rolling Stones aficionados.

14. ‘Aeroplane’ by Red Hot Chili Peppers

“Aeroplane” is a single from Red Hot Chili Peppers’ sixth studio album, “One Hot Minute,” released in 1995. The song features a funk-inspired guitar riff and a driving rhythm, with frontman Anthony Kiedis delivering his vocals in a rapid-fire style. The lyrics tell a surreal story about a man who wants to fly an airplane with his mind, with references to meditation and Eastern spirituality. “Aeroplane” was a commercial success and earned critical acclaim for its experimental sound and catchy chorus.

15. ‘747 (Strangers in the Night)’ by Saxon

“747 (Strangers in the Night)” is a song by British heavy metal band Saxon, released in 1985 on their album “Innocence Is No Excuse.” The song features a soaring guitar riff and a powerful vocal performance from frontman Biff Byford, as he sings about the excitement and danger of air travel. The lyrics tell the story of a pilot and his passengers facing danger on a flight, with the chorus referencing the famous Frank Sinatra song “Strangers in the Night.” “747 (Strangers in the Night)” remains a fan favorite among Saxon’s catalog and is often cited as one of their best songs.

16. ‘Leaving on a Jet Plane’ by John Denver

“Leaving on a Jet Plane” is a song written by American folk singer John Denver, first recorded in 1966. The song became a hit when it was recorded by Peter, Paul and Mary in 1969, and has since been covered by many other artists. The song features simple acoustic guitar chords and Denver’s gentle, earnest vocals, as he sings about the sadness of leaving a loved one behind and the hope of returning. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” is a beloved classic of folk and soft rock music and remains one of Denver’s most well-known songs.

17. ‘Jet Boy’ by The New York Dolls

“Jet Boy” is a song by American glam rock band The New York Dolls, released in 1973 on their self-titled debut album. The song features a raw, energetic sound, with guitarist Johnny Thunders delivering a memorable riff and frontman David Johansen delivering a sneering vocal performance. The lyrics are a celebration of living life in the fast lane and the thrill of flying on a jet plane. “Jet Boy” became a fan favorite and is often cited as one of the New York Dolls’ best songs.

18. ‘The Best Way To Travel’ by The Moody Blues

“The Best Way To Travel” is a song by British rock band The Moody Blues, released in 1969 on their album “To Our Children’s Children’s Children.” The song features a dreamy, psychedelic sound, with a lush arrangement of strings and keyboards. The lyrics are a tribute to the wonder of flight and the potential for humanity to explore the universe, with references to space travel and the beauty of the natural world. “The Best Way To Travel” is a fan favorite among Moody Blues fans and remains one of the band’s most memorable songs.

19. ‘Given to Fly’ by Pearl Jam

“Given to Fly” is a song by American rock band Pearl Jam, released in 1998 on their album “Yield.” The song features a driving guitar riff and frontman Eddie Vedder’s powerful vocals, as he sings about the feeling of being freed from fear and doubt. The lyrics are inspired by the story of a man who learns to fly and achieve his dreams, with references to the freedom of flight and the power of determination. “Given to Fly” was a commercial and critical success, and remains a fan favorite among Pearl Jam fans.