Hoobastank, Simple Plan, and other bands performed live for passengers on a Southwest flight just before a nationwide FAA ground stop.
In a remarkable twist of fate, a Southwest Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Orlando became the venue for a unique concert featuring popular bands such as Hoobastank, Simple Plan, The Used, and Lolo. This extraordinary event took place on November 13, 2026, just before the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded all flights across the United States due to safety concerns.
Approximately 125 passengers were treated to live performances as part of Southwest’s ‘Live at 35’ programme, which celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. The flight took off around 11 a.m., just two hours before the FAA’s nationwide ground stop, which left over a million travellers stranded.
The concert experience began at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), where fans dressed in rock-themed attire were welcomed with a playlist of rock music. Passengers had the chance to perform their favourite songs before meeting the artists scheduled to perform on the flight.
Once airborne, Lolo kicked off the concert with a four-song set, sharing her nervousness about flying. Hoobastank followed, performing a trio of songs, including their hit “The Reason,” during which lead singer Doug Robb encouraged passengers to join in a sing-along, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
The Used’s frontman Bert McCracken remarked on the unusual setting, joking about the experience while performing four songs, including a sing-along of “The Taste of Ink.” Simple Plan’s Pierre Bouvier concluded the performances with a set that included “I’d Do Anything,” playfully adapting the lyrics to reference the Vans Warped Tour.
Markus Lloyd, the host of the event, highlighted the excitement passengers felt upon discovering they were part of a live concert at 35,000 feet. He noted that such experiences are unique to Southwest Airlines, enhancing the travel experience for those heading to events like the Vans Warped Tour.
As the flight descended into Orlando, Hoobastank returned for an encore, leaving passengers with unforgettable memories of a concert that took place in the skies.
