Music has always drawn inspiration from the skies, and Songs About Planes are no exception.
In this blog, we explore 25 Songs About Planes that soar through various themes, offering listeners a glimpse into the world of flight and the emotions it evokes.
Whether symbolizing freedom, escape, or the bittersweet feeling of leaving loved ones behind, planes have captured the imagination of songwriters across genres.
From classic rock anthems to introspective indie tracks, these songs use aviation as a powerful metaphor for life’s emotional highs and lows.
So buckle up and enjoy a musical journey that takes you above the clouds.
1. “Aeroplane” by Red Hot Chili Peppers (1995)
About this song:
- Album: One Hot Minute
- Released: 1995
- Artist: Red Hot Chili Peppers
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Rock
- Key Lyric: “I like pleasure spiked with pain. And music is my aeroplane. It’s my aeroplane.”
Released in 1995, “Aeroplane” appears on One Hot Minute, the band’s sixth studio album.
Written by Flea, the song’s upbeat tempo contrasts its deeper theme of using music as a form of escape.
The song marks a transitional period in the band, with Dave Navarro stepping in as guitarist after John Frusciante’s departure.
Its funk-rock sound combined with introspective lyrics contributed to its chart success, highlighting Flea’s personal struggles.
The metaphor of an aeroplane is used to signify freedom and coping mechanisms during difficult times.
2. “Ohio Air Show Plane Crash” by Joe Henry (1996)
About this song:
- Album: Trampoline
- Released: 1996
- Artist: Joe Henry
- Genre: Rock, Blues
- Key Lyric: “Just before the crash. I was watching you.”
Released in 1996, “Ohio Air Show Plane Crash” is part of Joe Henry’s critically acclaimed album Trampoline.
The song tells a haunting story about an actual plane crash witnessed by the narrator during an air show.
Henry’s poetic lyrics blend personal reflection with a tragic event, exploring themes of mortality and unpredictability.
The melancholy tone and subdued arrangement underscore the gravity of the subject matter.
The song was written in a period when Henry was shifting towards a more experimental and less commercial sound.
3. “She’s An Aeroplane” by Chocolate USA (1992)
About this song:
- Album: All Jets Are Gonna Fall Today
- Released: 1992
- Artist: Chocolate USA
- Genre: Rock, Folk, World, & Country
- Key Lyric: “So I can’t turn if you can’t. Turn the TV on. Is she an aeroplane?”
Released in 1992 on the album All Jets Are Gonna Fall Today, “She’s An Aeroplane” reflects the indie band Chocolate USA’s quirky and experimental style.
The song, written by Julian Koster, uses the metaphor of an airplane to describe a woman’s free spirit and emotional distance.
Its lo-fi sound and playful arrangement embody the early ’90s alternative music scene.
The lyrics provide a mix of whimsy and introspection, characteristic of the band’s offbeat storytelling.
This track highlights the band’s DIY ethos, recorded with a raw, unpolished quality.
Read more: Songs About Enemies
4. “Aeroplane Blues” by The Black Keys (2004)
About this song:
- Album: Rubber Factory
- Released: 2004
- Artist: The Black Keys
- Genre: French Indie, Rock, Blues
- Key Lyric: “I’m on an airplane. ‘Cross the sea. Going nowhere. I wanna be.”
“Aeroplane Blues” was released in 2004 on the Rubber Factory album, blending blues rock with raw, gritty guitar riffs.
The Black Keys, consisting of Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney, wrote the song during their rise in the underground rock scene.
The song conveys a sense of frustration and yearning, using the metaphor of a flight to symbolize escape from hardships.
Its stripped-down production and intense vocals showcase the band’s signature garage-blues style.
Recorded in an abandoned factory, the album and song captured the band’s desire for independence and authenticity.
5. “Mystery Plane” by The Cramps (1980)
About this song:
- Album: Songs the Lord Taught Us
- Released: 1980
- Artist: The Cramps
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Rock
- Key Lyric: “My Daddy drives a UFO. Drops me off and then he goes. Leaves me on this mystery plane. But he’ll be back for me again.”
Released in 1980 on the album Songs the Lord Taught Us, “Mystery Plane” is an example of The Cramps’ psychobilly sound.
Lux Interior and Poison Ivy wrote the song, blending rockabilly with punk energy to create a mysterious and edgy vibe.
The lyrics playfully hint at a strange, otherworldly journey, combining science fiction themes with rock ‘n’ roll.
Known for their eccentric style, The Cramps used the “mystery plane” as a metaphor for exploration and rebellion.
This track solidified the band’s cult status, resonating with fans of unconventional, genre-bending music.
6. “Paper Planes” by M.I.A. (2007)
About this song:
- Album: Kala
- Released: 2007
- Artist: M.I.A.
- Genre: Pop music, Alternative hip hop
- Key Lyric: “I fly like paper, get high like planes. If you catch me at the border, I got visas in my name.”
Released in 2007 as part of the album Kala, “Paper Planes” became M.I.A.’s breakout hit.
The song addresses themes of immigration, survival, and global capitalism, using the “plane” as a symbol of cross-border movement.
M.I.A. wrote the song while grappling with her own experiences of displacement and identity.
Its unique blend of hip-hop, reggae, and world music sounds, along with the unforgettable gunshot sound effects, made it iconic.
“Paper Planes” was a commercial success, resonating with listeners for its bold commentary on modern global issues.
Read more: Songs About Running Away
7. “Mr. Airplane Man” by Howlin’ Wolf (1975)
About this song:
- Album: N/A
- Released: 1975
- Artist: Howlin’ Wolf
- Genre: Jazz, Vocal/Easy Listening, Blues
- Key Lyric: “Mr. Airplane man, will you fly down to Jackson for me?”
Recorded in 1959 but released in 1975, “Mr. Airplane Man” is a raw blues track that showcases Howlin’ Wolf’s deep, gravelly voice.
The song was written during a time when blues music was evolving into different styles, blending traditional and modern influences.
With its plea to a pilot to bring his lover back, the song uses the airplane as a symbol of yearning and separation.
Howlin’ Wolf’s powerful vocal delivery and minimalist instrumentation create a haunting, emotional atmosphere.
“Mr. Airplane Man” has been covered by various artists, reflecting its enduring appeal in the blues genre.
8. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver (1969)
About this song:
- Album: Rhymes & Reasons
- Released: 1969
- Artist: John Denver
- Genre: Folk Pop
- Key Lyric: “Hold me like you’ll never let me go. ‘Cause I’m leaving on a jet plane.”
Released in 1969, “Leaving on a Jet Plane” became John Denver’s signature song after being popularized by Peter, Paul, and Mary.
Denver wrote the song during a period of personal reflection and impending departure, using the plane as a symbol of both hope and regret.
The heartfelt lyrics capture the bittersweet emotions of leaving loved ones behind, a universal theme that resonated with listeners.
It became a major hit, topping the charts and cementing Denver’s reputation as a talented songwriter.
The song was written at a time when Denver was relatively unknown, but its success propelled him to stardom.
9. “Drunk on a Plane” by Dierks Bentley (2014)
About this song:
- Album: Riser
- Released: 2014
- Artist: Dierks Bentley
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “I’ll try anything to drown out the pain. They all know why I’m getting drunk on a plane.”
Released in 2014 on the album Riser, “Drunk on a Plane” tells the story of a jilted groom who gets intoxicated on a flight to forget his heartbreak.
Bentley co-wrote the song, which blends humor with the relatable feeling of trying to escape emotional pain.
The upbeat, country rock sound contrasts with the underlying sadness, adding depth to the narrative.
The song was inspired by Bentley’s own experiences and has become a fan favorite for its clever storytelling.
“Drunk on a Plane” was a commercial success, reaching high positions on the country music charts.
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10. “Watching Airplanes” by Gary Allan (2007)
About this song:
- Album: Living Hard
- Released: 2007
- Artist: Gary Allan
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “I’m just sittin’ out here watching airplanes. Take off and fly.”
Released in 2007 as part of Living Hard, “Watching Airplanes” is a country ballad about a man coming to terms with lost love.
Allan wrote the song during a reflective time in his life, using the image of planes as a metaphor for watching someone leave.
The melancholic tone and poignant lyrics resonated with fans, reflecting universal feelings of longing and acceptance.
The song was a commercial success, reaching high positions on country charts and becoming one of Allan’s signature tracks.
Its smooth production and emotional delivery showcase Allan’s ability to blend personal experiences with compelling storytelling.
11. “Trains vs Planes” by Human Hands (1988)
About this song:
- Album: Hereafter
- Released: 1988
- Artist: Human Hands
- Genre: Children’s Music, Rock, Indonesian Rock
- Key Lyric: “Trains can’t fly into the air. Planes can’t swim under the sea.”
“Trains vs Planes” was released in 1988 as part of the indie band Human Hands’ minimalistic and experimental approach to music.
The song contrasts trains and planes as symbols of old versus new, progress versus tradition.
The band uses unconventional arrangements and lyrics to explore these ideas, reflecting the changing times of the late ’80s.
Its stripped-down production and post-punk influence give the track a distinctive, raw edge.
Written during a period of musical experimentation, the song embodies the DIY ethos of indie music at the time.
12. “Plane Crash in C” by Rilo Kiley (2001)
About this song:
- Album: Take Offs and Landings
- Released: 2001
- Artist: Rilo Kiley
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Rock
- Key Lyric: “And how do you do it and make it seem effortless?”
Released in 2001, “Plane Crash in C” appeared on the indie rock band Rilo Kiley’s second album Take Offs and Landings.
The song deals with themes of disillusionment and existential reflection, with a plane crash serving as a metaphor for emotional fallout.
Written by Jenny Lewis and Blake Sennett, it reflects the band’s introspective and narrative-driven style.
The sparse, melodic arrangement highlights the emotional weight of the lyrics, creating a haunting listening experience.
This track helped establish Rilo Kiley as a key player in the early 2000s indie music scene.
13. “Aeroplane Flies High” by The Smashing Pumpkins (1996)
About this song:
- Album: The Aeroplane Flies High
- Released: 1996
- Artist: The Smashing Pumpkins
- Genre: Alternative/indie, rock
- Key Lyric: “It requires an ablity to judge distance. The aeroplane flies high. Turns left, looks right.”
Released in 1996 as part of The Aeroplane Flies High box set, this song epitomizes The Smashing Pumpkins’ exploration of heavy guitar-driven sound.
Billy Corgan wrote the track during a tumultuous period, both personally and within the band, using flight as a metaphor for emotional highs and lows.
The lyrics and distorted guitar reflect a sense of melancholy, aligning with the band’s alternative rock style in the mid-’90s.
Originally a B-side, it became a fan favorite, further showcasing the band’s experimental approach to music.
The track complements the darker themes of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, which preceded the release of this box set.
14. “Airplanes” by B.o.B (2010)
About this song:
- Album: B.o.B Presents: The Adventures of Bobby Ray
- Released: 2010
- Artist: B.o.B
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Can we pretend that Airplanes in the night sky are like Shooting stars? I could really use a Wish right now, wish right now.”
“Airplanes” was released in 2010 as part of B.o.B’s debut album, The Adventures of Bobby Ray.
The song, featuring Hayley Williams of Paramore, uses the image of airplanes as a metaphor for wishing and longing for better days.
Written during B.o.B’s rapid rise to fame, the song touches on themes of ambition, regret, and the desire to escape difficult circumstances.
Its catchy chorus and introspective verses made it a commercial success, reaching high positions on global music charts.
The song resonated with audiences for its relatable theme of searching for hope amidst struggles.
15. “Trains and Boats and Planes” by Dionne Warwick (1966)
About this song:
- Album: Here Where There Is Love
- Released: 1966
- Artist: Dionne Warwick
- Genre: Adult Contemporary
- Key Lyric: “Trains and boats and planes are passing by. They mean a trip to Paris or Rome.”
Released in 1966, “Trains and Boats and Planes” was a Burt Bacharach and Hal David composition made famous by Dionne Warwick.
The song describes the longing and heartbreak of missing someone who is traveling away by various modes of transportation.
Warwick’s soulful voice added emotional depth to the song, making it one of her many chart-topping hits of the 1960s.
Its orchestral arrangement, combined with Warwick’s vocal delivery, brought a timeless quality to this bittersweet ballad.
The song reflected the popular theme of separation and longing in love songs of the 1960s.
16. “Jet Airliner” by Steve Miller Band (1977)
About this song:
- Album: Book of Dreams
- Released: 1977
- Artist: Steve Miller Band
- Genre: Rock and roll, Blues rock, Rock
- Key Lyric: “Leavin’ home, out on the road. I’ve been down before. Ridin’ along on this big ol’ jet plane.”
“Jet Airliner” was released in 1977 on the Book of Dreams album and quickly became a staple of classic rock radio.
Written by Paul Pena and performed by the Steve Miller Band, the song expresses the mixed emotions of travel and leaving behind familiar places.
Its upbeat, bluesy rock sound contrasted with the bittersweet lyrics about the inevitability of moving on.
The song’s catchy guitar riffs and Steve Miller’s smooth vocal delivery made it a commercial hit in the late ’70s.
“Jet Airliner” reflected the band’s ability to blend rock with pop sensibilities, cementing their place in rock history.
17. “It’s Gonna Take An Airplane” by Destroyer (2004)
About this song:
- Album: Your Blues
- Released: 2004
- Artist: Destroyer
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Rock
- Key Lyric: “It’s gonna take an airplane to get me off the ground.”
Released in 2004 on Your Blues, “It’s Gonna Take An Airplane” highlights Destroyer’s signature mix of indie rock and orchestral arrangements.
Written by Dan Bejar, the song uses the airplane as a symbol of a distant, transformative journey, both emotionally and physically.
The minimalist yet evocative lyrics reflect Bejar’s introspective and poetic songwriting style.
The song’s soft, dreamlike production creates an ethereal atmosphere that complements its reflective tone.
This track showcases Bejar’s shift towards a more orchestral and theatrical sound, a departure from earlier works.
18. “Santa’s Got An Airplane” by The Beach Boys (1998)
About this song:
- Album: Ultimate Christmas
- Released: 1998
- Artist: The Beach Boys
- Genre: Rock, Pop
- Key Lyric: “’Cause loop de loop, flip flop, Santa’s got an airplane. Loop de loop, flip flop, flyin’ in an airplane.”
Released in 1998, “Santa’s Got An Airplane” appeared on Ultimate Christmas, blending holiday cheer with The Beach Boys’ classic harmonies.
Written as a fun, lighthearted track, it imagines Santa trading in his sleigh for a modern airplane.
The song maintains The Beach Boys’ signature surf-rock sound while adding a festive twist to their music.
Its playful lyrics and catchy melody reflect the band’s knack for creating timeless holiday songs with a contemporary flair.
This track contributed to the enduring popularity of The Beach Boys’ holiday music catalog.
19. “Big Jet Plane” by Angus and Julia Stone (2010)
About this song:
- Album: Down the Way
- Released: 2010
- Artist: Angus & Julia Stone
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, French Indie, Pop, Singer-Songwriter, Folk
- Key Lyric: “Gonna take her for a ride on a big jet plane.”
Released in 2010, “Big Jet Plane” became one of Angus and Julia Stone’s most well-known tracks, featured on Down the Way.
The song’s dreamy, folk-inspired melody and soft vocals tell the story of longing for escape and romantic adventure.
Its simple, heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences, earning the duo widespread recognition and chart success.
Written during a period of growth for the siblings as musicians, the song marked a shift towards a more polished sound.
“Big Jet Plane” received multiple awards and continues to be a favorite among fans for its emotional depth and atmospheric sound.
20. “Snakes on A Plane (Bring It)” by Cobra Starship (2006)
About this song:
- Album: While the City Sleeps, We Rule the Streets
- Released: 2006
- Artist: Cobra Starship
- Genre: Pop punk
- Key Lyric: “Times are strange. We’ve got a free upgrade for snakes on a plane.”
Released in 2006 as the lead single for the Snakes on a Plane soundtrack, “Bring It” became an anthem for fans of the cult film.
Written by Gabe Saporta of Cobra Starship, the song’s high-energy mix of pop-punk and electronic elements reflects the chaotic spirit of the movie.
The lyrics and title directly reference the film, adding to the fun and campy nature of the track.
Its infectious beat and playful tone made it popular among fans of both the movie and the band’s music.
The song marked Cobra Starship’s rise to fame, becoming synonymous with the movie’s unique blend of action and humor.
21. “First Plane Home” by Flamin’ Groovies (2008)
About this song:
- Album: Jumpin’ in the Night
- Released: 2008
- Artist: Flamin’ Groovies
- Genre: Children’s Music, Alternative/Indie, Rock
- Key Lyric: N/A
Released in 2008, “First Plane Home” is a track that highlights the Flamin’ Groovies’ garage rock and power pop sensibilities.
The song reflects themes of longing to return home, with the airplane serving as a symbol of fast escape.
Its retro sound and upbeat tempo mirror the band’s earlier works, evoking the spirit of ’60s rock.
Written during a revival of the band, it captures their desire to return to their roots while experimenting with modern influences.
The track stands out for its infectious energy, making it a fan favorite among long-time listeners.
22. “Airplane” by Plain White T’s (2010)
About this song:
- Album: Wonders of the Younger
- Released: 2010
- Artist: Plain White T’s
- Genre: Pop, Rock
- Key Lyric: “Airplane, airplane. Don’t you go down today. Take me away. Off to a better place.”
Released in 2010 as part of the album Wonders of the Younger, “Airplane” reflects the Plain White T’s softer, melodic style.
The song uses the metaphor of an airplane to describe feelings of uncertainty and searching for direction in life.
Its emotional lyrics and gentle acoustic sound marked a departure from the band’s more upbeat, pop-punk hits.
Written during a time of introspection, the song shows the band’s growth in tackling more mature themes.
“Airplane” resonated with fans for its vulnerability and hopeful tone.
23. “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” by Neutral Milk Hotel (1998)
About this song:
- Album: In the Aeroplane Over the Sea
- Released: 1998
- Artist: Neutral Milk Hotel
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Folk, Rock
- Key Lyric: “And one day we will die. And our ashes will fly. From the aeroplane over the sea.”
Released in 1998, “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” is the title track of Neutral Milk Hotel’s critically acclaimed album.
Written by Jeff Mangum, the song is a surreal and emotional reflection on love, loss, and the fragility of life.
The airplane serves as a metaphor for transcending the mundane and connecting with deeper, spiritual experiences.
The song’s haunting lyrics and eclectic instrumentation contributed to the album’s cult status.
Its poetic and introspective nature has made it one of the most iconic indie rock songs of the late ’90s.
24. “Hurricane Fighter Plane” by Red Krayola (1967)
About this song:
- Album: The Parable of Arable Land
- Released: 1967
- Artist: Red Krayola
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “It’s my hurricane, oh. Fighter plane I love. And it takes me where I want to go.”
Released in 1967, “Hurricane Fighter Plane” is one of the defining tracks from Red Krayola’s avant-garde debut album, The Parable of Arable Land.
The song’s experimental sound and chaotic energy reflected the psychedelic era’s focus on breaking musical boundaries.
Written by Mayo Thompson, the song uses the airplane as a symbol of power and destruction, mirroring the turbulence of the time.
Its dissonant instrumentation and unconventional structure made it stand out in the burgeoning underground music scene.
“Hurricane Fighter Plane” became a touchstone for experimental rock, influencing generations of avant-garde musicians.
25. “Outbound Plane” by Suzy Bogguss (1991)
About this song:
- Album: Aces
- Released: 1991
- Artist: Suzy Bogguss
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “’Cause if love won’t fly on its own free will. It’s gonna catch that outbound plane.”
Released in 1991, “Outbound Plane” became one of Suzy Bogguss’ biggest hits, featured on the album Aces.
Written by Nanci Griffith and Tom Russell, the song is a classic country tune about heartbreak and moving on.
The outbound plane symbolizes leaving behind a failed relationship, a theme that resonated with listeners.
Bogguss’ heartfelt delivery and the song’s catchy melody made it a favorite on country radio.
The song’s success helped solidify Bogguss’ place in the country music scene during the early ’90s.
Conclusion
From the soaring highs of classic rock hits to the introspective depths of indie tracks, this blog has taken listeners on unforgettable journeys through sound.
These songs go beyond the physical act of flying, touching on universal themes of freedom, departure, and emotional turbulence.
Whether you’re looking for a tune that reflects a sense of adventure or one that captures the bittersweet feeling of leaving someone behind, this collection of Songs About Planes provides a little something for everyone.
As music continues to evolve, the plane remains a powerful symbol, taking us to new emotional heights with each new track.