Challenges in the Life of Harrison Ford in a Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 5, 2026

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Harrison Ford. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Harrison Ford is a highly acclaimed American actor, considered a cinematic cultural icon. He has received numerous nominations, including for an Academy Award and Golden Globe Awards. Ford is also the recipient of prestigious lifetime achievement awards such as the AFI Life Achievement Award and the Cecil B. DeMille Award, solidifying his significant contributions to film.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles

August 22, 1987: Emergency Landing in Bangor, Maine

On August 22, 1987, Harrison Ford, Clint Eastwood, and Sondra Locke experienced an emergency landing in Bangor, Maine, aboard a Gulfstream III due to an engine fire and stuck landing gear during a flight from Paris to L.A.

October 23, 1999: Helicopter crash near Santa Clarita, California

On October 23, 1999, Harrison Ford was involved in a helicopter crash while piloting a Bell 206L4 LongRanger helicopter near Santa Clarita, California, during a training flight. The helicopter flipped onto its side after an unsuccessful autorotation attempt, resulting in serious damage, although no injuries were sustained.

March 5, 2015: Emergency landing on Penmar Golf Course

On March 5, 2015, Harrison Ford made an emergency landing on the Penmar Golf Course in Venice, California, after his plane, believed to be a Ryan PT-22 Recruit, lost engine power. He sustained a broken pelvis, broken ankle, and other injuries.

February 13, 2017: Taxiway landing at John Wayne Airport

On February 13, 2017, Harrison Ford landed an Aviat Husky on a taxiway at John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California, overflying a Boeing 737 that was holding short of the runway.

April 24, 2020: Runway crossing incident at Los Angeles Hawthorne Airport

On April 24, 2020, Harrison Ford crossed a runway at the Los Angeles Hawthorne Airport while piloting his Husky, as another aircraft was landing. The FAA determined the planes were about 3,600 feet apart and there was no risk of collision.