For many, the allure of the skies is irresistible, prompting the question:

How easy is it to get a pilot’s licence?

While becoming a licensed pilot requires dedication, the process is achievable for those passionate about flying. The journey typically begins with a Private Pilot License (PPL), which demands a minimum of 40 flight hours, including both instruction and solo time. Ground school, where aspiring pilots learn the theory of flight, navigation, weather, and regulations, is also required. After passing a written exam, students must demonstrate their skills during a check ride with an FAA examiner.

The entire process can take several months to a year, depending on the individual’s schedule and commitment. While it’s not a simple task, the reward of piloting an aircraft makes the effort worthwhile. Interestingly, many celebrities have taken this challenge head-on, combining their love for adventure with their passion for aviation.

Here’s a look at 10 famous faces who have earned their wings and taken to the skies:

Harrison Ford, best known for his iconic roles as Han Solo and Indiana Jones, is as adventurous off-screen as he is on-screen. A licensed pilot with over two decades of flying experience, Ford owns a fleet of aircraft, including a vintage de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver.

His passion for aviation extends beyond personal enjoyment; Ford has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts, using his planes to provide aid in disaster-stricken areas. As the chairman of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Young Eagles program, he has inspired countless young people to pursue aviation, proving that his love for flight is as legendary as his Hollywood career.

Tom Cruise, synonymous with high-octane action films, takes his on-screen skills to the skies in real life. The star of “Top Gun” is a licensed pilot, known for performing many of his own stunts. Cruise reportedly owns several aircraft, including a P-51 Mustang, a World War II fighter plane.

His passion for aviation is so deep that he’s known to have done some of the flying in “Top Gun: Maverick.” Cruise’s dedication to both his craft and his aviation hobby highlights his commitment to pushing boundaries, whether he’s on set or at the controls of an aircraft.

John Travolta’s love for aviation is as enduring as his film career. An accomplished pilot, Travolta holds multiple ratings, allowing him to fly a variety of aircraft, from small planes to large jets. His personal fleet includes a Boeing 707, which he once flew on behalf of Qantas Airways as an honorary pilot.

Travolta’s passion for aviation extends to his home life; his Florida residence includes a private runway, allowing him to literally taxi up to his front door. Travolta’s journey from Hollywood to the skies demonstrates his deep-seated love for flying, a passion that has spanned decades.

Angelina Jolie, known for her roles in action-packed films and her humanitarian efforts, is also a licensed pilot. Jolie earned her pilot’s license in 2004, driven by a desire to understand aviation safety better and to inspire her children with the beauty of flight. She often flies a Cirrus SR22, a single-engine aircraft known for its advanced safety features.

Jolie’s aviation skills add another dimension to her multifaceted life, showcasing her as a woman of action both on and off the screen. Her dedication to flying underscores her commitment to mastering new challenges and exploring new horizons.

Clint Eastwood, the legendary actor and director, has long had a passion for aviation. Known for his tough, no-nonsense roles, Eastwood also enjoys the freedom and solitude that comes with flying. He is a licensed helicopter pilot, often flying himself to movie sets or simply taking to the skies for relaxation.

Eastwood’s love for aviation is a testament to his independent spirit, mirroring the strong, self-reliant characters he portrays on screen. At 90 years old, Eastwood’s continued enthusiasm for flying proves that age is no barrier to pursuing one’s passions.

Morgan Freeman’s distinctive voice and commanding screen presence have made him a Hollywood legend, but his talents extend beyond acting. Freeman learned to fly at the age of 65, fulfilling a lifelong dream. He owns several aircraft, including a Cessna Citation 501 and a SyberJet SJ30, which he often pilots himself.

Freeman’s late-in-life entry into aviation is an inspiring reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. His dedication to flying, despite starting later than most, reflects the same perseverance and gravitas that have defined his film career.

Supermodel Gisele Bündchen, known for her stunning looks and successful career in fashion, is also a licensed helicopter pilot. Bündchen earned her license in 2009, driven by a desire to better understand aviation safety and to have the flexibility to fly herself. She reportedly completed the rigorous training while balancing her demanding modelling career, showcasing her dedication and discipline.

Bundchen’s entry into the world of aviation adds a surprising layer to her already impressive resume, proving that she’s more than just a pretty face—she’s a skilled pilot with a love for adventure.

Bruce Dickinson, the lead singer of the iconic heavy metal band Iron Maiden, is a man of many talents. In addition to his music career, Dickinson is a commercial airline pilot. He flew for Astraeus Airlines and famously piloted Iron Maiden’s tour plane, “Ed Force One,” a Boeing 747, during the band’s world tours.

Dickinson’s love for aviation is as intense as his passion for music, and he has used his skills to create a unique fusion of his two loves. His dual careers as a rock star and a pilot make him a true renaissance man in the world of entertainment and aviation.

Singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, known for his laid-back, beachy tunes, has long had a passion for flying. Buffett is an experienced pilot who enjoys flying seaplanes, reflecting his love for the ocean and the skies. He owns several aircraft, including a Grumman HU-16 Albatross, which he affectionately named “Hemisphere Dancer.”

Buffett’s aviation adventures have become a part of his larger-than-life persona, adding to his image as a carefree, adventurous spirit. His love for flying is as integral to his identity as his music, making him a true icon in both the skies and on stage.

Kurt Russell, the versatile actor known for his roles in films like “Escape from New York” and “The Thing,” is also a private pilot. Russell has been flying for many years and often speaks about the joy and freedom that comes with piloting his own aircraft. His love for aviation is a personal passion, one that he pursues with the same dedication and enthusiasm that has marked his long and successful acting career.

Russell’s ability to balance his Hollywood life with his love of flying makes him a standout figure among celebrity pilots, embodying the spirit of adventure both on the ground and in the air.

As we celebrate National Aviation Day, these celebrity pilots remind us that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning. Whether you’re an aspiring pilot or simply an aviation enthusiast, their stories are proof that with dedication and passion, the dream of flight is within reach for anyone.