Science fiction is a genre that captures our imagination, filled with thrilling adventures and amazing technology. Spaceships are at the heart of many sci-fi stories, and every spaceship needs a skilled pilot. These pilots aren’t just drivers; they are often the heroes who navigate treacherous space routes, engage in epic battles, and save the day. We love these daring characters, despite their occasional arrogance. They take us on incredible journeys, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
From single-seater starfighters to massive spacecraft, these pilots come from diverse backgrounds. Some are naturally gifted, others have trained rigorously, but all share a remarkable ability to handle the most challenging situations. Their legendary maneuvers have cemented their places in sci-fi history. Here are ten of the best pilots in science fiction.
Hikaru Sulu: Star Trek
No sci-fi list would be complete without a Starfleet pilot. Hikaru Sulu, a key member of the original Star Trek cast, consistently served on the Enterprise. Beginning in 2265, he became a senior officer and regular helmsman in 2266, guiding the ship through countless cosmic mysteries.
Sulu’s expertise was crucial in critical moments. He piloted the Enterprise during its tense encounter with Khan aboard the Reliant. When the crew had to commandeer a Klingon vessel to protect Earth from a whale probe, Sulu skillfully executed a time jump around the sun. His name is synonymous with exceptional space piloting.[1]
Han Solo: Star Wars
Han Solo, the iconic Star Wars pilot, is a natural at the controls. He famously evaded the Imperial Fleet, led by Darth Vader, by navigating through an asteroid field. Growing up on Corellia, he honed his skills boosting speeders before joining the Imperial Navy.
As a smuggler, he piloted the Millennium Falcon through the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs—an unmatched record. Accompanied by his loyal co-pilot Chewbacca, Solo’s daring adventures and unparalleled flying skills have become legendary throughout the galaxy.[2]
Steven Hiller: Independence Day
Independence Day introduces Captain Steven Hiller, played by Will Smith. Hiller is a TopGun-level fighter pilot who fearlessly maneuvers through the Grand Canyon. His quick thinking and tactical brilliance are unmatched; he even uses his jet’s parachute to blind and crash an alien pursuer.
Hiller becomes the first human to pilot an alien ship, successfully infiltrating the Mothership. Despite the dangers and a narrow escape, his aerial feats on Independence Day place him among sci-fi’s best. Although his character doesn’t appear in the sequel, his impact remains significant.[3]
Rocket (Raccoon): Guardians of the Galaxy
Rocket, from Guardians of the Galaxy, is genetically engineered for superior piloting skills. While Star-Lord might have more experience, Rocket’s inherent programming gives him the edge. Created by the High Evolutionary, Rocket’s piloting abilities are unmatched.
Rocket isn’t just better than Quill; he’s considered one of the best pilots in the Marvel Universe. His expertise in handling complex spacecraft makes him an invaluable member of the Guardians.[4]
Tom Paris: Star Trek (Voyager)
Tom Paris, often underrated, piloted the USS Voyager across 70,000 light-years from the Delta Quadrant. As Voyager’s main flight controller, he navigated the ship through perilous situations. Paris is arguably Starfleet’s most skilled pilot.
Leading the Delta Force Task Force, comprised of the Alpha Quadrant’s best pilots, he also built a trans-warp engine and even flew through time. Despite early setbacks, Paris achieved warp ten safely, although the actual flight caused him to mutate temporarily. He’s a true hotshot pilot.[5]
Hoban “Wash” Washburne: Firefly
The cancellation of Firefly was a blow to sci-fi fans, but the film Serenity continued the story. Wash, the pilot of the Serenity, consistently flew the crew out of tight situations. He stabilized the ship alongside a moving train during a daring job.
Wash executed a “Crazy Ivan” maneuver to evade Reaver vessels and navigated through a chaotic battle between the Reavers and the Alliance Fleet. His last words, “I’m a leaf on the wind… Watch how I soar,” during a tragic moment, cemented his place as one of sci-fi’s finest pilots.[6]
Hera Syndulla: Star Wars (Rebels/Ahsoka)
![Star Wars Rebels - Hera Syndulla vs. TIE fighters [1080p]](https://rankedfacts.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2F0zBpuSziCGI%2F0.jpg)
Hera Syndulla, known from Rebels and Ahsoka, is the leader of Ghost Team and Phoenix Squadron. Her exceptional piloting skills drew the attention of Grand Admiral Thrawn. Syndulla’s prowess in the cockpit is undeniable.
She test-piloted the B-Wing fighter prototype and is the only pilot to outfly Darth Vader in his TIE advanced. When Vader set a trap, Hera’s skillful maneuvers turned the tables, ensnaring Vader himself. Her abilities are truly impressive.[7]
Kara “Starbuck” Thrace: Battlestar Galactica
The Battlestar Galactica reboot introduced Kara “Starbuck” Thrace, a skilled and complex character. Thrace prevents nuclear missiles from striking Galactica and saves Apollo in the Battle of Ragnar Anchorage.
She repairs a Cylon Raider, providing valuable technology to the Fleet. In her maiden flight of the Blackbird fighter, she demonstrates impressive stealth abilities. Admiral Cain, impressed by her performance, promotes her to Captain and Pegasus CAG. Despite a seeming death and miraculous return, Starbuck remains a legendary figure.[8]
Alex Rogan: The Last Starfighter
The Last Starfighter features Alex Rogan, an arcade-obsessed teenager. His high score on the “Last Starfighter” game, actually a recruiting tool, leads to his recruitment as an interstellar pilot. Initially reluctant, Alex realizes his home is in danger.
Alex proves to be a natural Gunstar pilot, repelling the Ko-Dan Armada with the “Death Blossom” maneuver. His innate piloting ability shines, making him a key figure in this coming-of-age story.[9]
Leela: Futurama
Turanga Leela, the pilot of the Planetary Express delivery ship in Futurama, is determined and skilled. Despite lacking depth perception due to having one eye, she consistently outperforms the galaxy’s best pilots.
Leela’s unflappable demeanor and impressive piloting skills allow her to navigate asteroid belts and black holes. Despite the comedic nature of Futurama, Leela’s expertise ensures the crew’s survival. Also a proficient melee combatant, she stands out as a capable and remarkable pilot.[10]
These ten pilots represent the best of sci-fi, showcasing skill, bravery, and determination. From saving galaxies to navigating the unknown, their contributions have made them unforgettable characters.
Who’s your favorite sci-fi pilot? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
