When it comes to country music, our favorite artists are known for their captivating lyrics, toe-tapping melodies or one-of-a-kind styles. In some cases, they’re equally know for what they do outside of music, be it their philanthropic efforts or business ventures.

And then there’s this elite class of pilots.

A handful of country hitmakers have taken their interest in aviation to the next level, with many owning their own aircraft or helicopter — we’re looking at you, Luke Bryan!

What Are the Benefits to Being a Pilot?

One perk to having your pilot’s license is the freedom to travel across the country on a whim. Dierks Bentley once said he enjoyed being able to fly himself to and from his shows while on tour. The ability to pilot his own plane enabled him to be home with his family more frequently while on the road.

“I don’t like being gone anymore than I have to be,” he explained to E! News in 2018. “I love being out here and doing this, but when it’s time to go home, I’ll find a way to get back for birthdays and first days of school, any break there is.”

Aside from being able to come home more often, many of our flying country artists were inspired to take to the sky by other pilots. In fact, Alan Jackson says he learned most of his flying from the man who flew him to many of his shows.

Scroll down to see which stars have gotten their pilot’s licenses.

Jess hosts the syndicated radio show, Taste of Country Weekend, which can be heard on country stations nationwide. Tune in for all of the best new country music, spotlights on new tracks and emerging artists, plus Double-Downs on all of your favorites. The weekend is always better with a little Taste of Country in it.