Harrison Ford Pilot License and Current Certifications
Harrison Ford holds a private pilot certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration, along with instrument and multi-engine ratings that allow him to fly under instrument flight rules and operate aircraft with more than one engine. His certificate number and medical certificate are maintained in FAA records, and he has completed recurrent training required to keep his privileges current Federal Aviation Administration. He is type-rated for specific high-performance aircraft, which means he has received formal training and passed a practical test in those models.
Ford has logged thousands of flight hours across various aircraft types, including vintage warbirds and modern jets, and he regularly participates in airshows and charitable flights. His flying career became publicly visible through his role as a pilot in the film "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," where he performed many of the flying sequences himself. He is also known for his participation in the Young Eagles program, introducing young people to aviation through free flights Experimental Aircraft Association.
Aircraft Fleet, Ratings, and Aviation Activities
Types of Aircraft Harrison Ford Flies
Harrison Ford has been photographed and documented flying a variety of aircraft, including the Ryan PT-22 Recruit, a de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver, and several vintage biplanes. He owns and operates planes such as the de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter and has been seen in the cockpit of modern jets during personal travel and airshow appearances. His instrument rating allows him to fly in low-visibility conditions, while his multi-engine rating qualifies him to pilot aircraft with more than one engine.
Notable Flights and Aviation Milestones
Ford has completed notable flights, including a 2015 landing of a vintage plane on the runway at the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh event, where he was honored for his contributions to aviation. He has also flown humanitarian missions, delivering supplies and supporting causes through organizations that use aviation for disaster relief and community outreach. His airshow performances often include aerobatic maneuvers in warbirds, demonstrating precision flying skills Forbes.
Aviation Career, Safety Record, and Industry Impact
Professional Pilot Work and Public Advocacy
Harrison Ford has served as a pilot for the nonprofit organization Angel Flight West, providing free air transportation for patients and families in need of medical care far from home. He has also flown missions for the Smithsonian Institution and other groups that use aircraft for research, conservation, and education. His advocacy for general aviation includes support for pilot training programs and efforts to preserve historic aircraft.
Safety Record and Industry Recognition
Ford has been involved in several aviation incidents that drew public attention, including a 2015 crash landing on a golf course near a Los Angeles airport, where he sustained injuries but survived due to the aircraft's structure and his training. He has spoken publicly about the importance of pilot proficiency, maintenance, and safety culture in general aviation. His experience and advocacy have made him a recognized figure in the aviation community, influencing both public perception and support for pilot education ESPN.