RAG Music
Lovely music

A song with an airplane theme. A classic that suits the sky.

A roundup of songs themed around airplanes! From timeless classics to nostalgic tunes, we’ve picked a wide range.

When you think of songs about airplanes, what comes to mind? You might recall two or three, but not many people can think of more than that.

Come to think of it, there really aren’t that many airplane-themed songs.

Still, this time we’re also introducing hidden gems that will make you say, “Ah! Now that you mention it, that really is an airplane song!” A must-see for anyone who loves fresh, breezy melodies!

Songs with an airplane theme. Masterpieces that suit the sky (21–30)

ChangeONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK – Change -Japanese Ver.- [Official Music Video]
ChangeONE OK ROCK

This song, which was used in Honda’s “Go, Vantage Point.” commercial.

The chorus has an incredible sense of openness that wraps you in a refreshing feeling! Some people might not like it, but why is the moment of takeoff on a plane so exciting? I think it also fits that feeling of “I might be able to change” when you set off for countries and places you’ve never been, into an unknown world.

It seems like even your first trip could begin with a thrilling sense of anticipation!

WingMatsuda Seiko

A track included on the B-side of Canary, the eighth album released in 1983 and now recognized as a city pop classic.

The lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto, which liken feelings for a loved one to wings, really resonate.

The vivid depiction brings the scene to life, and together with Seiko Matsuda’s vocal prowess, there’s a refined grace that seems to dwell on an unchanging love despite the distance.

The laid-back sound is soothing too—almost as if you’d naturally start to float when you get on a plane.

It’s a masterpiece that conveys a kind of mature elegance you don’t often find today.

Songs themed around airplanes. Timeless tracks that suit the sky (31–40)

airplaneFISHMANS

Hikouki is the debut single by Fishmans, a rock band that plays pop music rooted in genres like reggae and dub.

It was released as a single from the 1991 album Chappie, Don’t Cry, along with Inago ga Tonderu.

Its relaxed sound features a floating reggae beat that seems to depict an airplane drifting hazily through the sky.

The music video’s animation was created by Shinji Sato, the band’s guitarist and vocalist, so be sure to check it out!

Jet Plane of the Starry SkyKatō Izumi

Meteor Highway ~ Jet Plane of the Starry Sky
Jet Plane of the Starry SkyKatō Izumi

“Jet Plane in the Starry Sky” is a song by Izumi Kato, a singer from Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, included on her 1993 album Sweet Love Songs.

The album reached No.

10 on the Oricon Albums Chart.

Set to a refreshing, forward-driving 8-beat, the lyrics poignantly capture the feeling of seeing you off as you’re about to take off on a plane.

It’s a recommended track for fans of Yumi Matsutoya and New Music.

Runway in the Night FogMifune Hiroshi

“Runway in the Night Mist” is a song by singer Hiroshi Mifune, who helped spark a low-voice boom alongside artists like Nagai Frank, Ichirō Kōbe, and Yūjirō Ishihara.

Mifune is also known for signature songs such as “Otoko no Blues” and the theme from “Moonlight Mask.” He appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen three times, including with “Runway in the Night Mist” in 1958.

The lyrics—about wanting to see you just once more—are achingly poignant, classic Shōwa kayō.

Please give “Runway in the Night Mist” a listen!

Transparent wingsruuto

Transparent Wings / Root Music Video
Transparent wingsruuto

This song produced by Root portrays, from the perspective of a flightless bird, the longing for dreams, setbacks, and the meaning of taking on challenges.

Set to a melody that is both poignant and powerful, it depicts the journey of a protagonist who once only yearned, until they finally take flight.

Released on October 25, 2024—Root’s own birthday—the track was accompanied by a simultaneous music video drop.

The video shows a boy gaining wings and soaring through the sky, moving the hearts of viewers.

As an anthem for those chasing their dreams, it’s the perfect song to gift someone special on their birthday.

365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB48

[MV full] 365 Nichi no Kamihikōki / AKB48 [Official]
365 Days' Paper AirplaneAKB48

AKB48’s hit song “365-Day Paper Airplane.” More recently, it’s become known for Sayaka Yamamoto’s solo cover.

“365-Day Paper Airplane” was chosen as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Asadora “Asa ga Kita.” Since it was composed to match the drama, the melody is a simple one centered on acoustic sounds.

Given that AKB48’s sound at the time was mostly bright and glamorous, many people were probably surprised when they heard this song.