Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker has put up his boarding pass from a recent trip to Australia for sale at $8,000. This isn’t just any boarding pass; it’s a symbol of triumph over a long-standing fear of flying, a fear that stemmed from a tragic plane crash in 2008. This unique piece of memorabilia is available on the Trophy website, with part of the proceeds benefiting the charity Lost But Not Forgotten.
Back in 2008, Barker was involved in a horrific plane crash that took the lives of four people, including two of his close friends, and left him with severe injuries. He survived but was left with a profound fear of flying. For over a decade, he avoided air travel, opting instead for ground and sea transport.
In 2021, with the support of his wife, Kourtney Kardashian, Barker took to the skies again. He credits her love and encouragement for helping him overcome his phobia.
“The power of love really helped me. Kourt made it so I fly, my kids fly now. She healed us.”
Travis Barker, LA Times
A Symbol of Triumph
The boarding pass up for auction is not just a travel document; it’s a testament to Barker’s resilience. He adorned the pass with a cross and the words, “I know I got angels watching over me,” and it shows both the date February 7 and seat number 7, a number often associated with good fortune. The pass was from a Qantas flight from Sydney to Perth, marking Barker’s first Australian tour in over a decade.
The description on Trophy’s website highlights the significance of this item, calling it “a true piece of Travis himself.” For fans, it’s more than just memorabilia; it’s a piece of history and a symbol of overcoming incredible odds.
The 2008 Plane Accident
On the night of September 19, 2008, Barker boarded a private jet in South Carolina. During takeoff, a tire burst, causing the plane to overrun the runway, crash through a fence, and burst into flames. Both pilots and two of Barker’s friends perished in the crash, while Barker and DJ AM survived but suffered severe injuries.
Barker endured months of hospitalisation, numerous surgeries, and extensive physical and psychological recovery. The crash left him with burns covering 65% of his body and an intense fear of flying that lasted for 13 years.
In 2021, Barker made his first flight since the crash, travelling to Cabo San Lucas with Kourtney. Despite the anxiety and stress, Barker continues to fly, determined not to let his past dictate his future.
The Auction
The Qantas boarding pass is framed and comes with a certificate of authenticity. It represents a significant chapter in Barker’s life and his journey back to air travel. The item for over $15,000 AUD on the Trophy website.
Travis Barker's boarding pass from 2024 trip in Australia up for sale for $8K – after rocker overcame fear of flying following 2008 crash https://t.co/LezTNnxC0c pic.twitter.com/PXzTUxibQT
— Josiah Williams (@Josiah_FL) July 29, 2024
Also available on Trophy is Barker’s drum set from the 2022 Blink-182 music video for “Edging.” For fans and collectors, these items offer a rare glimpse into the personal and professional life of the rock star.
Travis Barker’s journey from the trauma of a plane crash to conquering his fear of flying is a testament to his resilience and the power of support from loved ones. His boarding pass auction is more than just a sale; it’s a celebration of overcoming fear and embracing life’s challenges head-on.
