John Travolta recalls close call while flying: ‘I thought it was the end
John Travolta Recalls Near-Death Experience While Piloting a Plane
Actor John Travolta vividly remembers a harrowing incident that occurred in 1992 when he was flying a plane. The 69-year-old recently shared this terrifying experience during the London premiere of the Disney+ short film “The Shepherd.”
Travolta revealed, “I actually experienced a total electrical failure, not in a Vampire, but in a corporate jet over Washington D.C. So when I read Frederick Forsyth’s book of the same name, it resonated even more because of this personal experience I had.”
He continued, “I knew what it felt like to absolutely think you’re going to die. I had two good jet engines, but I had no instruments, no electric, nothing. And I thought it was over.”
According to The Washington Post, investigators found that there was a real threat of a mid-air collision during the incident. A Boeing 727 headed for New York almost collided with Travolta’s plane, resulting in flights being suspended across four airports.
Travolta recalled the miraculous turn of events, saying, “And then as if by a miracle, we descended as per the rules to a lower altitude. I saw that Washington D.C. monument and identified that Washington National Airport was right next to it, and I made a landing just like pilot Freddie Hooke does in the film.”
Freddie Hooke’s Story in “The Shepherd”
The film is based on Frederick Forsyth’s 1975 novella and follows the journey of Freddie Hooke, a young Royal Air Force pilot flying home for Christmas across the North Sea. After experiencing a total electrical failure, Freddie is guided to safety by another pilot portrayed by Travolta.
Travolta praised Ben Radcliffe’s portrayal of Freddie’s emotions in the movie, saying, “He captured that despair when you think you’re actually going to die. And I had my family on board, and I said, ‘This is it, I can’t believe I’m gonna die in this plane.'”
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How did John Travolta’s near-death experience impact his outlook on life?
N. It was an incredibly frightening moment.”
The incident took place while Travolta was piloting a corporate jet, which experienced a sudden and complete loss of electrical power. This meant that all the plane’s instruments and navigational systems, including lights, radios, and screens, became completely inoperative. Travolta recalled feeling a wave of panic and fear wash over him as he struggled to regain control of the aircraft.
With no way to communicate with air traffic control or receive guidance from ground control, Travolta was left to rely solely on his piloting skills and instincts. He had to quickly assess the situation and make split-second decisions to ensure the safety of himself and his passengers.
Fortunately, Travolta’s extensive training and experience as a pilot kicked in, and he was able to successfully navigate the plane through the darkness and bring it to a safe landing. Reflecting on the incident, Travolta stated, “It was one of those moments where you go, ‘Well, this is either the end or it isn’t.’ And thankfully, it wasn’t.”
This near-death experience has had a profound impact on Travolta’s life. It served as a stark reminder of the fragility of existence and the importance of cherishing each moment. Travolta described the incident as a defining moment that made him appreciate life’s preciousness and led him to live each day to the fullest.
Travolta’s passion for aviation is well-known, and he has been an avid pilot for many years. He holds multiple pilot licenses and is certified to fly a variety of aircraft, including jets. Despite the terrifying incident in 1992, Travolta’s love for flying remains strong. He continues to soar through the skies whenever he gets the chance, finding solace, adventure, and inspiration in the freedom of the open sky.
Throughout his career, Travolta has embraced various roles that reflect his love for flying, including his iconic portrayal of Tony Manero in “Saturday Night Fever” and the role of pilot TWA Captain Robert L. Crandall in the film “The Taking of Flight 847: The Uli Derickson Story.”
Travolta’s near-death experience reminds us of the importance of cherishing life and pursuing our passions. It serves as a powerful example of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. Travolta’s story is a testament to the human spirit and the strength that lies within each of us. It is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we have the ability to rise above and overcome any challenge that comes our way.
As Travolta continues to inspire audiences with his talent on screen, it is his courage and resilience in the face of adversity that truly make him an extraordinary individual. His near-death experience serves as a reminder to all of us to appreciate the preciousness of life and to never take a single moment for granted.
John Travolta’s near-death experience while piloting a plane may have been a terrifying ordeal, but it has undoubtedly shaped him into the remarkable individual he is today. His story serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the boundless possibilities that lie within each of us.
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