Hollywood superstar John Travolta attempted to go incognito as he co-piloted a private jet into Sydney on Wednesday. The 70-year-old actor, known for his roles in iconic films like Saturday Night Fever and Grease, was seen landing in the Harbour City with his family, including daughter Ella Bleu and son Benjamin.
Key Takeaways
- John Travolta, 70, co-piloted a private jet into Sydney from New Zealand.
- He was accompanied by his daughter Ella Bleu, 24, and son Benjamin, 13.
- Travolta has a long-standing passion for flying and holds a pilot’s license.
- The actor has visited Australia more than 10 times and considers it his second home.
Arrival in Sydney
John Travolta touched down in Sydney aboard a private jet he co-piloted from Queenstown, New Zealand. The actor, who holds a pilot’s license, was seen waving at fans and ground staff from inside the aircraft. He attempted to keep a low profile by wearing designer shades and a black overcoat paired with grey pants and a checked scarf.
Travolta’s daughter, actress Ella Bleu, and his son Benjamin were also on the flight. Ground staff used umbrellas to shield the family from photographers as they disembarked.
A Passion for Flying
Travolta’s love for aviation is well-documented. He began learning to fly at the age of 15 and obtained his first jet license in 1978, the same year Grease was released. His contributions to aviation have earned him a spot on the Wall of Honor at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. He has also been named a worldwide ambassador for Qantas and honored by the American Institute of Aeronautical Engineers.
In 2002, Travolta led a Washington, DC, extravaganza to mark a century of manned flight. The following year, he flew his own Boeing 707 with John Glenn, the first American to orbit Earth, as his passenger.
Frequent Visitor to Australia
Travolta’s recent trip to Sydney is just one of many visits he has made to Australia over the years. He has expressed a deep affinity for the country, even calling it his "second home." His connection to Australia is also linked to his friendship with the late Olivia Newton-John, his co-star in Grease.
Family Time
The actor’s visit to Sydney comes weeks after he and his daughter Ella enjoyed a father-daughter vacation in Paris to watch the Olympic Games. Travolta shared a video montage of their trip on Instagram, featuring moments from their time watching American gymnast Simone Biles and tennis star Novak Djokovic.
Travolta shares Ella and Benjamin with his late wife, Kelly Preston, who passed away in 2020. The family has faced significant tragedy, including the loss of their eldest son Jett in 2009.