25 Celebrities Who Fly Economy and Why It’s So Relatable

Most of the time, when we think of famous people traveling, we usually think of private jets, chauffeured cars, and first-class cabins with lie-flat beds and gourmet meals. But every now and then, you might be at the airport and see someone you recognize. Not on their way to a VIP lounge, but waiting in the same line for Starbucks, carrying their own bags, and heading toward the economy section.

It’s a surprisingly common. Many celebrities are choosing to fly just like the rest of us. This choice is a great reminder that fame doesn’t change everything. It’s often a statement of humility, a practical decision, or a simple way to get from point A to point B without a lot of drama.

It gives us a humanizing glimpse into their lives, showing that they, too, are just trying to find a seat and get to their destination. Here is a look at 25 celebrities who have been seen flying coach, and what their choice says about them.

Public Figures Who Lead by Example

For politicians and public figures, traveling coach is a powerful symbol. It connects them to the people they represent and reinforces a down-to-earth image.

Bernie Sanders

A U.S. Senator from Vermont, he’s a famous economy flier. He often takes a middle seat on Delta Air Lines, a habit that perfectly matches his political identity as a champion for everyday Americans.

Hillary Clinton

The former Secretary of State has been spotted on commercial flights, navigating busy airports with her security detail. Flying with the public, instead of on a private plane, helps her appear accessible.

Mitt Romney

The U.S. Senator from Utah is known for his no-frills travel. Stories about him flying coach and even taking a middle seat are often shared as examples of his humble character.

Royals with a Common Touch

Even members of the British royal family are embracing a more modern approach to travel.

Kate Middleton (Princess of Wales)

The Princess of Wales has been seen on commercial flights, including on British Airways. Her use of budget airlines like Ryanair shows a desire to be more relatable and mindful of costs.

Prince William (Prince of Wales)

The heir to the throne has also been seen on commercial flights. He once flew American Airlines, a move that helps him project a sense of normalcy and avoid the high costs of private travel.

Hollywood Stars Opting for Simplicity

For some of Hollywood’s biggest names, flying coach is a way to stay grounded or escape the intense spotlight.

• Amy Adams: The actress, known for her roles in films like Arrival, received wide praise for giving up her first-class seat to a U.S. serviceman on a Delta Air Lines flight. It was a simple act of kindness that showed her genuine character.
• Brad Pitt: The A-list actor has been seen flying commercial with his family. The choice was often practical for his large family and provided a rare chance to avoid paparazzi.
• Claire Danes: The Emmy-winning actress, known for her role in Homeland, was once seen on a red-eye flight in economy, a surprising sight for a star with every option available.

The Frugal and Savvy: It’s All Business

For some, it’s not about being humble; it’s about being smart with money.

• Barbara Corcoran: A star on Shark Tank, she’s famously frugal. She has said she always flies coach and uses the money she saves for family trips.
• Bill Gates: The Microsoft co-founder was known for flying coach for many years before he acquired a private jet. It was a sign of his practical approach to life.
• Jessica Alba: The actress and founder of The Honest Company has been spotted flying economy while her children enjoyed first class, a savvy and endearing parenting move.

Surprising Sightings

Sometimes, a celebrity’s presence in coach is just too unexpected to ignore.

• Kanye West: Before his private jet, the rapper was once seen flying commercial, a rare moment of anonymity for a global superstar.
• Kim Kardashian: She, too, was once spotted on a commercial flight with West, a striking image for a couple known for their lavish lifestyle.
• Ryan Reynolds: Known for his humor and relatable persona, the actor has a partnership with British Airways through his Aviation American Gin brand, but he has still been seen on other commercial flights.

Other Notables Just Like Everyone Else

These stars seem to view flying coach as a normal part of life, not an event.

• Blake Lively: The actress has talked about the challenges of flying commercial with her baby, proving that even a glamorous star has to deal with the same struggles as other parents.
• Caitlyn Jenner: The Olympic gold medalist and TV personality has been seen on commercial flights, taking selfies with passengers and flight attendants. It’s a testament to her approachable style.
• Katie Holmes: The actress and her daughter have been spotted flying economy on various trips, choosing a more low-key lifestyle away from the spotlight.
• Tom Holland: The Spider-Man actor has a reputation for being grounded and humble, and his occasional travel in economy only adds to that image.
• Timothée Chalamet: Before his rise to superstardom, the young actor was known for flying commercial. It’s a detail that’s become a part of his story.
• Miley Cyrus: The singer has been seen on commercial flights, often with a companion for support.
• America Ferrera: A film critic once sat next to the actress in coach, noting her kind and humble demeanor.
• Nicolas Cage: The iconic actor has been spotted in the economy cabin, adding to his reputation as a fascinating and unpredictable figure.
• Alec Baldwin: The actor’s past conflicts with American Airlines on commercial flights have made headlines, proving that even celebrities can’t escape the drama of air travel.
• John Cena: The wrestling star has been seen flying commercial, with fellow passengers often noting how his massive size is a funny contrast to the small economy seat.