Why Elton John Once Refused To Fly — And Missed A Major Event

April 2, 2025

Elton John was a superstar, known for his flamboyant style and incredible music. But there was a time when he was terrified of flying. It all started after a frightening experience on a small plane. One fateful night in 1975, Elton was on his way to perform at a concert when the plane he was in encountered turbulence so severe that he thought it might crash. The sheer fear of that moment stayed with him, leading him to refuse to get on an airplane for years. This decision, while protective, would come to change the course of his career in unexpected ways.

In 1993, Elton received an invitation to a major event: he was to perform at the Academy Awards, one of the most prestigious awards shows in the world. The opportunity was a dream for any musician, and it had the potential to elevate his already legendary status. But there was a problem. He was living in England, and the ceremony was taking place in Los Angeles. Instead of jumping on a plane, Elton decided to drive across the country. He packed his bags, hopped in his car, and began an epic road trip that would take him through winding roads and endless stretches of highway.

As he drove, he felt a mix of excitement and anxiety. The journey was long, filled with moments of joy as he listened to music and reminisced about his own musical adventures. However, doubts crept into his mind. What if he didn’t make it in time? What if he missed his chance to shine on that grand stage? As the miles rolled by, he began to wonder if this determination was worth the risk of losing such a monumental moment in his career.

On the day of the Oscars, Elton found himself stuck in traffic. While other performers were backstage preparing, he was still navigating through the hustle and bustle of rush hour. When he finally arrived, the show was already underway. With his heart racing, he rushed inside the theater, hoping that he hadn’t missed his chance. But much to his dismay, he learned that the moment to perform had already passed. He was devastated, feeling as though his fear had robbed him of a lifelong dream.

However, in true Elton John fashion, he didn’t let this setback keep him down for long. Instead of sulking in disappointment, he took to the stage after the show ended. With his piano and his powerful voice, he filled the empty space with music, captivating an audience that had already left their seats. It was a spontaneous performance, but it reminded everyone of the passion and resilience that defined him as an artist. That night, he may have missed the official performance, but he turned the night around, showing the world that his love for music could not be diminished by fear.

This experience taught Elton a valuable lesson about overcoming obstacles and embracing opportunities, even when they seemed out of reach. His journey across the country became a metaphor for life—sometimes the road may be long and unpredictable, but perseverance and passion can lead to incredible moments, even if they are unexpected. Instead of allowing fear to hold him back, Elton channeled that energy into his music, creating songs that continue to inspire millions. And while he eventually learned to fly again, he never forgot the road trip that taught him to keep chasing his dreams, no matter what.