31 Most Famous Songs About Airplanes (Flying Playlist)

Songs about airplanes are more than just odes to travel; they tap into deeper human emotions like freedom, adventure, and longing.

Whether used as a symbol of escape or a metaphor for personal growth, airplanes in music help listeners explore the highs and lows of life, love, and self-discovery.

Across various genres, from jazz to rock, songs about airplanes offer a rich, lyrical journey through the skies and beyond.

31 Greatest & Most Popular Songs About Planes (High Flying Playlist)

This list features a variety of styles, from rock to pop, all tied together by the theme of airplanes and flight.

Here’s a list of 31 songs about airplanes:

#1 “Learning to Fly” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

“Learning to Fly” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is a metaphorical exploration of personal growth and freedom. The song isn’t literally about flying a plane but uses aviation imagery to capture the feeling of venturing into unknown territory, whether in life or dreams. The idea of “learning to fly” becomes a symbol for overcoming life’s challenges and pushing forward even when the path is unclear.

The song’s steady rhythm and uplifting guitar riffs reflect the sensation of soaring, while Petty’s laid-back vocals give it a sense of ease, as if flying is both a natural progression and an exhilarating risk. It resonates as an anthem of resilience and self-discovery.

#2 “Jet Airliner” by Steve Miller Band

“Jet Airliner” by Steve Miller Band is a classic rock track that merges the theme of airplane travel with the idea of leaving behind familiar comforts. The song reflects on the tension between wanting to explore new horizons and the sadness of saying goodbye to the past. “Big ol’ jet airliner, don’t carry me too far away” is a poignant refrain, suggesting that while the protagonist is ready for adventure, part of them is reluctant to let go of the life they know.

The upbeat tempo and groovy guitar riffs give the song a sense of movement, mirroring the physical journey of flying and the emotional journey of navigating change and uncertainty.

#3 “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver

“Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver is a bittersweet farewell song that captures the heartache of saying goodbye to a loved one before taking off on a long journey. The lyrics are filled with longing and regret, as the protagonist reflects on the pain of separation, promising to return and make things right. Despite the sadness, the song also has a hopeful undercurrent, emphasizing the bond that endures despite the distance.

Denver’s gentle acoustic guitar and soothing voice give the song a comforting quality, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who’s ever had to leave someone behind, unsure of what the future holds.

#4 “Aeroplane” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

“Aeroplane” by Red Hot Chili Peppers is a funky, upbeat track that uses the metaphor of an airplane to convey the highs and lows of life. While it reflects on turbulence and challenges, it also celebrates the joy of soaring through those obstacles. “Music is my aeroplane” is a central line, with the band expressing how music lifts them above life’s difficulties, much like an airplane flying above the clouds.

With its funky bassline and playful energy, the song delivers an empowering message about using personal passions to rise above adversity, all wrapped in the Chili Peppers’ signature high-energy sound.

#5 “Paper Planes” by M.I.A.

“Paper Planes” by M.I.A. is a politically charged song that uses the imagery of planes to comment on immigration, identity, and survival. The paper plane symbolizes fragility and impermanence, a nod to how immigrant communities often navigate precarious situations. The song’s catchy chorus, which references both planes and gunshots, juxtaposes innocence with violence, highlighting the tensions faced by those seeking a better life.

M.I.A.’s unique blend of electronic beats, world music influences, and sharp lyrics makes “Paper Planes” a standout track, turning the simple image of a paper plane into a powerful symbol of resilience and defiance.

#6 “Boeing 707” by Roger Miller

“Boeing 707” by Roger Miller is a classic country tune that takes listeners on a nostalgic flight through time. The song celebrates the iconic Boeing 707 airplane, which revolutionized air travel in the 1950s and ’60s. Miller’s lyrics reflect a sense of adventure and freedom, with the narrator excited to hop on the plane and head off to unknown destinations.

The song’s twangy guitar and upbeat rhythm reflect the carefree spirit of travel, making it a tribute not just to the aircraft itself, but to the joy of exploration and the open skies. It captures the thrill of taking flight in an era when air travel was still new and exhilarating.

#7 “Fly Away” by Lenny Kravitz

“Fly Away” by Lenny Kravitz is an anthem of escape and freedom, using the metaphor of flying to express the desire to break away from the constraints of everyday life. The upbeat rock song, with its catchy chorus and vibrant energy, is a call to soar above the mundane and find a place where the soul can be free. Kravitz’s smooth vocals and rhythmic guitar riffs create a sense of flight, capturing the essence of liberation and adventure.

The lyrics, “I want to get away, I want to fly away,” resonate with anyone who’s ever dreamed of leaving it all behind and finding peace in a far-off place, away from the stress of daily life.

#8 “Jet” by Paul McCartney and Wings

“Jet” by Paul McCartney and Wings is a fast-paced rock song that combines the energy of aviation with themes of youthful rebellion and independence. The title refers to McCartney’s Labrador dog, but the lyrics take listeners on a ride that feels like an exhilarating journey in a jet plane. The song’s lively tempo and punchy brass sections mirror the speed and excitement of flight, while the lyrics convey a sense of breaking free and embracing the unknown.

McCartney’s playful wordplay and energetic delivery make “Jet” a timeless anthem that captures both the thrill of flying and the freedom that comes with forging your own path.

#9 “Fly Like an Eagle” by Steve Miller Band

“Fly Like an Eagle” by Steve Miller Band is a classic rock song that blends social commentary with imagery of flight. The lyrics urge listeners to “fly like an eagle,” rising above societal issues like poverty and inequality. The extended metaphor of flight represents a call to action, encouraging people to seek change and rise to new heights in the face of adversity.

With its smooth, ethereal sound and iconic synthesizer melody, the song creates a sense of floating through the air, capturing both the beauty of freedom and the need for social transformation. It’s a powerful anthem that merges personal growth with collective responsibility.

#10 “Plane” by Jason Mraz

Jason Mraz’s “Plane” is a heartfelt ballad that uses the image of an airplane to explore themes of distance and longing. The song reflects on the emotional pain of being apart from someone you love, with the airplane symbolizing the physical and emotional space between two people. Mraz’s smooth vocals and poetic lyrics capture the bittersweet feeling of being in transit, torn between the joy of returning home and the ache of separation.

The melody is soft and contemplative, evoking the quiet moments of reflection that often happen while flying. “Plane” is a tender ode to love, distance, and the hope of reuniting.

#11 “747 (Strangers in the Night)” by Saxon

“747 (Strangers in the Night)” by Saxon is a hard rock song that tells the dramatic story of an airplane in distress. The song’s lyrics narrate the experience of being on a Boeing 747 during a tense moment, with the plane running into trouble and the passengers becoming “strangers in the night.” The powerful guitar riffs and energetic beat create an atmosphere of tension and urgency, mimicking the high stakes of an airborne crisis.

The song’s adrenaline-fueled sound perfectly captures the sense of danger and excitement that comes with air travel, making it a gripping rock anthem about survival and the unpredictability of flight.

#12 “Aces High” by Iron Maiden

“Aces High” by Iron Maiden is a high-energy metal song that pays tribute to the pilots who fought in World War II, particularly during the Battle of Britain. The song tells the story of a dogfight between fighter planes, with the pilots engaged in a deadly aerial battle. The rapid guitar riffs and intense vocals mirror the fast pace and danger of aerial combat, while the lyrics evoke the bravery and skill of the pilots as they take to the skies to defend their country.

The song’s relentless energy and vivid storytelling make it a powerful tribute to the courage of wartime aviators, capturing both the glory and peril of flying in combat.

#13 “Learning to Fly” by Pink Floyd

“Learning to Fly” by Pink Floyd is a reflective track that uses the metaphor of flight to explore themes of freedom, fear, and self-discovery. The lyrics describe the exhilaration of taking off and soaring through the sky, but also the uncertainty that comes with venturing into new, uncharted territory. David Gilmour’s haunting vocals and the atmospheric soundscapes create a sense of floating through the air, capturing both the beauty and the trepidation of flying.

The song’s layers of meaning extend beyond the literal act of flight, speaking to the challenges of personal growth and the courage it takes to break free from the familiar.

#14 “Big Jet Plane” by Angus & Julia Stone

“Big Jet Plane” by Angus & Julia Stone is a dreamy, folk-inspired song that uses the image of a jet plane as a symbol of escape and romantic longing. The song tells the story of someone who wants to whisk their lover away on a “big jet plane,” leaving behind the worries and constraints of daily life. The soft, melancholic melody and gentle vocals create a sense of yearning, capturing the desire for connection and adventure.

The song’s simplicity and heartfelt lyrics resonate with anyone who’s ever wanted to leave everything behind for the promise of love and a new beginning.

#15 “The Airplane Song” by Scouting for Girls

“The Airplane Song” by Scouting for Girls is a lighthearted, catchy tune that uses the imagery of airplanes to convey feelings of love and excitement. The protagonist dreams of flying across the world to be with the person they love, and the airplane becomes a symbol of connection, bridging the distance between two people. With playful lyrics and an upbeat melody, the song captures the feeling of anticipation and joy that comes with travel and reunions.

The lively rhythm and infectious chorus make this song a fun, feel-good anthem about love and adventure. It’s a celebration of the freedom that comes with flying and the thrill of reaching someone special.

#16 “Fly” by Sugar Ray

“Fly” by Sugar Ray is an upbeat, breezy song about wanting to escape life’s troubles and “fly” away to a place of peace and freedom. The song’s easygoing vibe, complete with reggae-influenced beats and Mark McGrath’s laid-back vocals, creates a sense of lightness, as though floating through the sky without a care in the world. The lyrics express a desire to leave behind stress and embrace a more carefree existence.

The relaxed yet catchy rhythm makes “Fly” a perfect summer anthem, capturing that feeling of wanting to let go of worries and rise above the weight of daily life, just like soaring through the clouds.

#17 “The Airplane Song” by The Royal Guardsmen

“The Airplane Song” by The Royal Guardsmen is a whimsical, nostalgic tune that harkens back to the days of aviation heroics and airborne adventures. This playful track, featuring a lively beat and vintage harmonies, tells the story of a thrilling flight through the skies. While the song has a fun, almost cartoonish feel, it captures the imagination and sense of wonder that airplanes evoke, especially during the early days of aviation.

The upbeat tempo and lighthearted lyrics make it a charming tribute to the magic of flying, ideal for anyone who loves the nostalgia of classic aviation stories and songs.

#18 “Jet City Woman” by Queensrÿche

“Jet City Woman” by Queensrÿche is a powerful rock ballad that merges the concept of flying with themes of love and longing. The song’s protagonist sings about his “Jet City woman,” a love who seems always just out of reach, like a distant plane in the sky. The roaring guitars and soaring vocals reflect the intensity of the emotion, while the jet imagery underscores the feelings of distance and yearning.

The song’s raw energy captures the blend of excitement and heartache that comes with long-distance love, making it a timeless anthem about emotional flight, as well as literal flying through the sky.

#19 “Songbird in a Cage” by Charlotte Gainsbourg

“Songbird in a Cage” by Charlotte Gainsbourg uses the metaphor of an airplane to represent both freedom and captivity. The song’s haunting melody and Gainsbourg’s ethereal voice create an atmosphere of quiet reflection, as the lyrics explore the tension between feeling confined and yearning to break free. The airplane imagery evokes both the possibility of escape and the fear of being trapped by life’s circumstances.

With its delicate soundscapes and introspective lyrics, the song taps into deep emotions, blending the beauty of flying with the struggle to rise above personal challenges. It’s a contemplative piece about flight, both literal and metaphorical.

#20 “Delta Dawn” by Tanya Tucker

“Delta Dawn” by Tanya Tucker is a country classic that, while not directly about airplanes, evokes the sense of journey and anticipation that flight can bring. The song tells the story of a woman named Delta Dawn, waiting for a mysterious man who promised to take her away. While the airplane imagery isn’t explicit, the themes of longing, waiting, and escape are all present, much like the anticipation of an upcoming flight.

Tucker’s emotive voice and the song’s storytelling draw listeners into Delta Dawn’s world, creating a powerful narrative about hope and the promise of a better future just on the horizon.

#21 “Back in the U.S.S.R.” by The Beatles

“Back in the U.S.S.R.” by The Beatles is an energetic, rock ‘n’ roll tribute to the excitement of returning home after traveling the world. The song opens with the sound of an airplane landing, immediately setting the stage for a high-energy homecoming. Paul McCartney’s playful lyrics and the upbeat tempo create a sense of exhilaration, as the protagonist expresses joy at being back in familiar territory.

The song’s connection to airplanes is subtle but central, as it captures the feeling of relief and happiness that comes with flying back to a place of comfort. It’s a fast-paced, fun song about the thrill of returning home.

#22 “Airplane” by Plain White T’s

“Airplane” by Plain White T’s is a tender acoustic track that reflects on themes of distance and longing. The song describes a desire to leave behind a difficult situation and fly to a place of peace and calm, using the airplane as a metaphor for escape and change. The gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics capture the emotional weight of feeling trapped and yearning for something better.

With its stripped-down sound and vulnerable lyrics, “Airplane” offers a poignant reflection on the human desire to rise above challenges, making it a heartfelt anthem for those looking to take flight emotionally or physically.

#23 “Blue Skies” by Willie Nelson

“Blue Skies” by Willie Nelson is a classic country tune that uses the imagery of clear skies to evoke feelings of optimism and renewal. While not directly about airplanes, the song’s lighthearted reference to the open skies conjures the sensation of soaring above the clouds. The simplicity of Willie Nelson’s voice and the warm, inviting melody makes this song a perfect fit for those moments of hope and new beginnings, much like the feeling of taking off on a smooth flight.

Nelson’s smooth vocals and the timeless message of positivity invite listeners to imagine themselves gliding through the air, carefree and full of promise. It’s a soothing anthem for anyone longing for brighter days and the freedom of endless blue skies.

#24 “Turbulence” by Bowling for Soup

“Turbulence” by Bowling for Soup combines the turbulence of flying with the chaos of life’s unpredictable twists and turns. The metaphor of a shaky airplane ride is used to convey resilience and perseverance through tough times. With pop-punk energy and catchy lyrics, the song encourages listeners to push through the rough patches, knowing that things will eventually calm down, just like turbulence smoothing out mid-flight.

The upbeat rhythm and defiant tone make this song both a reminder of life’s hardships and a rallying cry to keep going, no matter how bumpy the journey may seem. It’s a perfect soundtrack for overcoming adversity, much like navigating through turbulent skies.

#25 “Up in the Air” by Thirty Seconds to Mars

“Up in the Air” by Thirty Seconds to Mars is an electrifying anthem that blends rock with electronic elements, using the imagery of flight to symbolize confusion and a search for clarity. The title itself, “Up in the Air,” reflects a state of uncertainty, as the protagonist navigates the highs and lows of emotional turbulence. The soaring chorus and Jared Leto’s intense vocals capture the energy of being both lost and exhilarated, as if suspended in mid-flight.

The song’s driving beat and powerful message about self-discovery turn it into an anthem of transformation, using the concept of flight as a metaphor for personal growth and exploration.

#26 “Somewhere Far Away” by Dawn Landes

“Somewhere Far Away” by Dawn Landes is a dreamy, folk-infused track that captures the longing for escape and adventure. The soft, lilting melody and Landes’ ethereal vocals make the listener feel as though they’re drifting through the clouds, heading toward a distant, peaceful destination. The airplane imagery in the song evokes a sense of freedom, as the protagonist yearns to leave behind the familiar and embark on a journey to a better place.

The song’s gentle pace and wistful lyrics create a sense of serenity, making it an ideal track for those moments when all you want is to get away and fly somewhere far, far away from the everyday grind.

#27 “Aviation” by The Last Shadow Puppets

“Aviation” by The Last Shadow Puppets is a moody, atmospheric song that uses the theme of flying to explore darker, more introspective emotions. The haunting strings and Alex Turner’s brooding vocals create a cinematic feeling, as if the listener is watching an airplane ascend through stormy skies. The song’s title refers to the art of flight, but its deeper meaning touches on control, vulnerability, and the thin line between soaring high and crashing down.

With its dramatic soundscapes and noir-like tone, “Aviation” is a captivating exploration of the complexities of life, using the idea of flight to represent the tension between freedom and danger.

#28 “Airport Song” by Guster

“Airport Song” by Guster is a quirky, alternative rock track that captures the sense of detachment and surrealism that can come with traveling through airports. The song’s jangly guitars and hypnotic rhythm give it a whimsical, almost dreamlike quality, while the lyrics reflect the monotony of waiting in airports, watching people come and go. The airplane imagery, though subtle, helps to evoke a sense of liminality, as if the protagonist is stuck between worlds, neither here nor there.

With its offbeat charm and playful mood, “Airport Song” captures the feeling of being in transit, where time seems to stretch and the world outside feels distant, much like the experience of air travel.

#29 “Fly” by Nicki Minaj featuring Rihanna

“Fly” by Nicki Minaj featuring Rihanna is an empowering anthem that uses the metaphor of flight to symbolize rising above obstacles and achieving greatness. With a soaring chorus sung by Rihanna, the song celebrates perseverance, resilience, and the determination to succeed against all odds. Nicki Minaj’s verses add a personal touch, reflecting on her journey in the music industry and the challenges she’s overcome to reach new heights.

The song’s uplifting message and dynamic energy make it an inspirational track, perfect for anyone looking to “fly” above the negativity and embrace their full potential. It’s a powerful reminder that success, like flight, requires both strength and courage.

#30 “Airplanes” by B.o.B featuring Hayley Williams

“Airplanes” by B.o.B featuring Hayley Williams uses the metaphor of flight to represent dreams, desires, and the longing for second chances. Williams’ soulful chorus, “Can we pretend that airplanes in the night sky are like shooting stars?” evokes the idea of making wishes on airplanes, symbolizing a yearning to turn back time or undo past mistakes. B.o.B’s verses are introspective, addressing the pressures of fame, the challenges of success, and the personal cost that comes with it.

The contrast between B.o.B’s raps and Williams’ haunting vocals creates a powerful narrative about feeling lost while striving for something greater. The airplane metaphor serves as a constant reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the desire to escape and start anew.

#31 “Come Fly with Me” by Frank Sinatra

“Come Fly with Me” by Frank Sinatra is a timeless jazz classic that invites listeners to embark on a romantic adventure, carried away by the metaphorical wings of an airplane. Sinatra’s smooth voice and the song’s whimsical lyrics create an air of effortless charm, as the crooner suggests taking off to exotic destinations, far from the mundane realities of everyday life. The airplane becomes a symbol of escape and excitement, a vessel for exploring new places and falling in love.

With its upbeat tempo and lively orchestration, the song embodies the glamour and thrill of air travel in the 1950s. It’s a musical journey that sweeps listeners off their feet, making them dream of gliding through the sky on a perfect romantic getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What themes are common in songs about airplanes?

Songs about airplanes often explore themes of escape, freedom, and adventure. They use flight as a metaphor for personal growth, emotional distance, and the desire to soar above life’s challenges.

Why do artists use airplanes as a metaphor in their music?

Artists use airplanes as a metaphor because they represent both physical and emotional journeys. Airplanes symbolize reaching new heights, moving forward, or even longing to return home, all while being suspended between destinations.

Which genres feature songs about airplanes?

Songs about airplanes can be found in a wide range of genres including pop, rock, country, and jazz. These themes resonate across different styles because of their universal appeal related to travel and self-discovery.

Are songs about airplanes typically uplifting or melancholic?

Songs about airplanes can be both uplifting and melancholic depending on the artist’s message. Some songs celebrate the thrill of flight and freedom, while others reflect on isolation, longing, or the sadness of leaving loved ones behind.