Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →From a private pilot’s licence earned at 65 to helicopter qualifications and a long-running passion for jets, these ten performers, presenters and athletes have aviation stories beyond their public careers. The list follows Pilot magazine’s 2015 profiles; it is a historical snapshot, not a record of who is licensed or actively flying today.
What “pilot” means in these profiles
The ten names come from Pilot magazine’s 2015 feature. The people it describes have different backgrounds and qualifications: private pilots, helicopter pilots, a glider pilot, and—in John Travolta’s historical interview—someone with multiple jet type ratings. These accounts do not establish current certificates, medical eligibility, ratings, aircraft ownership or recent flight activity.
A real-life licence also should not be confused with an on-screen role. An actor portraying an aviator is not thereby shown to have flown the aircraft in a production.
Ten celebrity pilots, and the stories behind them
1. Morgan Freeman: a late start
Pilot magazine reports that Freeman earned his private pilot licence at 65. He had previously served in the U.S. Air Force as a mechanic. His story stands out for the age at which he began flying, not for a claim about how frequently he flies now.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
- COMFORTABLE AND DURABLE DESIGN – The RA200s lightweight design weighing only 16 oz paired with soft foam ear seals provides unparalleled comfort over extended flights.
- UNMATCHED AUDIO CLARITY - Premier noise reduction rating (NRR) of 24db and electret noise-canceling microphone provides crystal clear audio ensuring minimal background noise.
- AUDIO ADJUSTABILITY - Individual volume control on each ear with ultra-lite neodymium speakers and a 3.5mm input jack for phone connection (AUDIO ONLY).
- HIGH QUALITY MICROPHONE - Equipped with an advanced noise canceling electret microphone, you can ensure your communication remains clear and uninterrupted.
- PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT - A custom padded headset bag is included to protect your headset outside of flying times. This bag is FREE when purchasing the headset.
2. Tom Cruise: a licence reported since 1994
Pilot magazine says Cruise has held a pilot licence since 1994. That is the publication’s historical biographical detail; it does not verify his present qualification or flight activity.
3. John Travolta: a licence at 22, with jet ratings reported in 2012
In a 2012 interview profile, Travolta said he earned his private pilot’s licence at 22. The same interview reported that he had 11 jet type ratings at that time, alongside an interest in vintage aircraft. The ratings count belongs to that 2012 account and should not be read as a current total.
Rank #2
![Bose A30 Bluetooth Aviation Headset - Lightweight Comfortable Design, Adjustable ANR and Noise Cancelling Microphone, [Dual Plug] – Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41sTva8tf5L._SL160_.jpg)
- UNPARALLELED COMFORT: The Bose A30 is a full-sized circumaural aviation headset with a lightweight design and 20% lower clamping force than the A20 along with soft, comfortable ear seals.
- PRECISION-FOCUSED NOISE CANCELLING MICROPHONE: The Bose A30’s microphone is engineered for aircraft with “hot mic” or PTT systems to increase clarity and reduce background noise during transmission.
- FAA TSO and EASA E/TSO-C139a CERTIFIED: The Bose A30’s robust design has passed 145 tests by the Bose engineering and quality assurance team to ensure endurance in challenging flight environments.
- THREE SELECTABLE MODES OF ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION: Industry-leading active noise reduction with adjustable modes accommodates different use cases or pilot personal preference.
- ACTIVE EQUALIZATION: Incoming signals are shaped and equalized for unmatched audio clarity and intelligibility to this headset with mic.
4. Angelina Jolie: private and instrument qualifications reported
Pilot magazine reports that Jolie has held a private pilot licence since 2004 and was instrument-rated. Its profile connects her decision to learn with her son’s interest in aircraft. These are the magazine’s reported biographical details, rather than a current regulator check.
5. Richard Hammond: a helicopter qualification
Pilot magazine reports that the presenter qualified as a helicopter pilot in March 2012. The account identifies the aircraft category; it does not establish whether he currently flies.
Rank #3
- SUPERIOR AUDIO CLARITY – Featuring a premier noise reduction rating (NRR) of 24db and stereo sound output, this aviation headset ensures crystal-clear audio with minimal background noise.
- COMFORTABLE AND DURABLE DESIGN – Designed for extended wear during long flights that can withstand the rigors of regular aviation use, the ultra-plush silicone gel ear seals (which are replaceable) and extra-thick head pad with adjustable headband deliver unmatched comfort and durability.
- HIGH-QUALITY MICROPHONE - Equipped with an electret noise-canceling microphone with preamp on 360° flex boom, ensuring your communication is consistently clear and uninterrupted, even in noisy environments. The microphone is adjustable and stays in position well.
- VERSATILE AUDIO & COMPATIBILITY – Independent volume controls for each ear, clear hear speakers, a mono/stereo switch, and a 3.5mm AUX input. Connect to apps like ForeFlight for real-time alerts, navigation cues, and in-flight updates straight to your headset.
- COMPLETE PACKAGE - A custom-fit headset bag is included to protect your headset outside of flying times. This bag is FREE when purchasing the headset.
6. Gisele Bündchen: helicopter licence reported in 2009
The same magazine says Bündchen obtained a helicopter licence in 2009. Her profile is a reminder that celebrity aviation is not limited to fixed-wing aircraft.
7. Harrison Ford: learned in a Cessna 182
Pilot magazine says Ford earned his real-life pilot licence at 53 after learning in a Cessna 182. A 2015 TheWrap profile also describes him as an avid aviator. Both are historical secondary accounts, not confirmation of his current certificate or flying status.
Rank #4
- Super Soft, Double Foam Head Pad
- New Comfort gel, undercut ear seals
- Universal Flex Boom for perfect microphone placement
- Exclusive M-7A, the most advanced noise-cancelling microphone available
- Low-profile volume control knob with detent settings
8. Phil Mickelson: a Gulfstream V in the profile
Pilot magazine reports that golfer Mickelson obtained a pilot licence and flew a Gulfstream V. The aircraft detail reflects what the magazine reported; it should not be taken as a claim about current ownership.
9. Carol Vorderman: a private licence and a Diamond DA42
Pilot magazine reports that Vorderman passed a private pilot licence in 2013 and owned a Diamond DA42 at the time of its feature. The account does not establish that she still owns that aircraft.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsBest Value
- FIVE STAR COMFORT: Embark for every journey sporting maximum comfort. Our over the ear headphones are constructed for a lightweight fit with a reversible headband and microphone design. Sierra wired headphones with microphone ear seals are constructed to create a better seal and greater distribution of side pressure. Give yourself the luxury head set you deserve.
- FIVE BY FIVE COMMS: We understand reliable communication is key for safety. Our noise canceling headset with a microphone provides advanced noise reduction through state-of-the-art technology. Sierra communication headset allows full Bluetooth connectivity and offers an integrated control box with auxiliary input to make pairing your devices easy!
- EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY: Invest in your future. Aviation headsets for pilots are essential aviation tools that should be built to last. Our head phones are designed with durability and longevity in mind to endure the harshest flying environments and last long-term. Sierra is made for high-quality performance. All of our Sierra headsets are made in America.
- PREMIUM FEATURES: Pair with our exclusive app to capture incoming and outgoing communication. Sierra bluetooth headset with microphone automatically lowers the volume of any auxiliary device during radio or intercom transmissions. The soft mute feature gently eases music back in for a smooth listening transition. Incorporate the features you desire in your bluetooth headset for your ultimate experience.
- DESIGNED BY FELLOW PILOTS: As a company of pilots and flight enthusiasts, we strive to know our customers well and deliver an innovative in-flight experience. Our Sierra bluetooth headphones with microphone are constructed by our finest engineers who understand what pilots need. Sierra aviation headsets are designed as pilot headsets for airplanes but can also be used as tactical headset or military headset.
10. David Jason: helicopter and glider flying
Pilot magazine reports that actor David Jason qualified as a helicopter pilot in May 2005 and was also a glider pilot. His profile spans two different kinds of aircraft, but does not say whether he remains active in either.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why a licence does not necessarily mean someone still flies
A useful contrast comes from the Iowa Department of Transportation’s feature on country stars who are pilots. It says Alan Jackson maintains his licence but no longer actively flies. That distinction matters: retaining a licence and regularly flying are separate facts, and the available profiles do not establish current activity for everyone on this list.
What these profiles do—and do not—show
The stories show varied entry points into aviation: an early private licence, a qualification earned later in life, and training in helicopters or gliders. They are individual biographies, not evidence of how common pilots are among celebrities. For instance, the 2026 Living Legends of Aviation announcement quotes Travolta saying, “The Living Legends of Aviation is where Hollywood and the flight deck meet.” The remark describes the event; it is not evidence about his credentials.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
