The magic of flight has always been captured through music whether it represents the thrill of air travel or the freedom of reaching the skies or life’s turbulent journeys. Need some songs that talk about flying or airplanes? If you’re someone who feels anxious about air travel but must take an upcoming flight this playlist could help you feel more at ease with flying. These songs featuring rock classics and heavy metal anthems transport listeners on an aerial journey above the clouds.
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1. The Byrds: Eight Miles High
The Byrds released “Eight Miles High” in 1966 which stands as one of psychedelic rock’s earliest songs through its dual representation of flying as both a physical journey and symbolic passage. The experience of traveling to London directly influenced the song’s ethereal guitar sounds and mysterious lyrics which mirror the bewildering nature of travel and altered mental states.
2. Pink Floyd: Learning to Fly
The song “Learning to Fly” by Pink Floyd expresses the dual conception of lift-off by portraying the experience of airborne flight and personal growth. David Gilmour drew inspiration from his own experiences of pilot training to write the 1987 song while simultaneously capturing the band’s evolution following Roger Waters’ exit. The atmospheric elements combined with the soaring chorus make it a standout track from A Momentary Lapse of Reason.
3. Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers: Learning to Fly
Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers’ “Learning to Fly” differs from Pink Floyd’s version because it deals with facing life’s struggles instead of flying an airplane. The 1991 release of the song combines straightforward lyrics with powerful emotion to depict resilience and determination, establishing it as one of Petty’s most inspirational tunes.
4. Lynyrd Skynyrd: Free Bird
Lynyrd Skynyrd created “Free Bird,” which serves as both a literal and metaphorical exploration of freedom while encouraging self-discovery through its music. A legendary piece of rock music from 1973 delivers one of the most unforgettable guitar solos that captures the free spirit of a person who rejects limitations.
5. Ozzy Osbourne: Flying High Again
Ozzy Osbourne’s 1981 song “Flying High Again” shows the concept of taking flight while offering a deeper symbolic meaning. The track presents a tale of ambition and success while subtly referencing Ozzy Osbourne’s notorious substance abuse history. Randy Rhoads’ electrifying guitar work makes “Flying High Again” a standout track in Ozzy Osbourne’s solo music career.
6. Lenny Kravitz: Fly Away
Lenny Kravitz’s “Fly Away” is one of the best musical expressions of the desire to escape. The 1998 hit expresses a longing to escape and start over entirely. The combination of its groovy riff and catchy chorus established “Fly Away” as one of Kravitz’s essential tracks while it continues to serve as a timeless feel-good rock anthem.
7. Saxon: 747 (Strangers in the Night)
The song “747 (Strangers in the Night)” by Saxon blends heavy metal sounds with aviation history. The musical piece from 1980 narrates the infamous incident where a Boeing 747 experienced power failure and became stranded over New York in 1965. The song stands out as a pinnacle achievement within Saxon’s musical collection through its powerful guitar riffs and detailed storytelling.
8. Red Hot Chili Peppers: Aeroplane
Red Hot Chili Peppers correlate music to the experience of flying in an aeroplane. “Aeroplane” by Red Hot Chili Peppers, released in 1995, as an upbeat funk-rock anthem that celebrates music’s ability to provide relief from life’s difficulties. The band’s grooviest hit comes from the combination of Flea’s slapping bassline and Anthony Kiedis’ expressive vocals.
9. The Beatles: Back in the USSR
The Beatles starts The White Album with “Back in the USSR,” an energetic rock track that exudes playful jet propulsion vibes. The song creates an imaginary flight back to the Soviet Union by merging Chuck Berry’s “Back in the U.S.A.” with roaring jet sounds and harmonies reminiscent of the Beach Boys.
10. Iron Maiden: Aces High
Iron Maiden’s “Aces High” is on of the most intense airplane-related songs ever created. A World War II RAF pilot fights in this 1984 heavy metal anthem. Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals alongside the fast-paced guitar riffs deliver a historical ride at full speed.
