Buckle up for a cinematic journey through the skies with our curated list of the top 10 hijack movies. These films not only deliver high-octane action but also delve into the psychological and strategic elements of air piracy. From classic tales of heroism to modern-day thrillers, this collection promises to keep you riveted with its intense narratives and unforgettable characters. Whether you're a fan of suspense, action, or just love a good airplane setting, these movies offer a unique blend of tension and entertainment that will make your heart race.

Skyjacked (1972)
Description: This film, based on the novel "Hijacked," follows a pilot's struggle to save his passengers from a hijacker demanding to be flown to Moscow. It's one of the earliest films to explore the theme of air piracy.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Sound. Also, it was one of the first movies to use a real Boeing 707 for filming.


The Delta Force (1986)
Description: Based on the real-life hijacking of TWA Flight 847, this film showcases the efforts of an elite military unit to rescue hostages from a hijacked plane. Chuck Norris and Lee Marvin lead the action-packed rescue mission.
Fact: The movie was filmed with the cooperation of the Israeli military, and some scenes were shot at the actual location of the TWA hijacking in Beirut.


Passenger 57 (1992)
Description: Wesley Snipes plays an ex-SWAT officer who must stop a terrorist from hijacking a plane. The film is famous for its catchphrase, "Always bet on black."
Fact: The film was originally titled "Terror at 37,000 Feet" but was changed to avoid confusion with other similar titles. Also, the character of John Cutter was inspired by real-life security consultants.


Executive Decision (1996)
Description: A team of special operatives must board a hijacked plane in mid-air to neutralize a terrorist threat. This film is known for its intense action sequences and the unexpected plot twist involving Kurt Russell's character.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Air Force Two" but was changed to avoid confusion with "Air Force One." Also, the plane used in the film was a Boeing 747-200, which was later used in the movie "Air Force One."


Air Force One (1997)
Description: This film takes the hijack scenario to the highest level when terrorists seize the President's plane. Harrison Ford delivers a gripping performance as the President fighting to regain control of Air Force One.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life incident where a plane carrying the President of the Philippines was hijacked in


Con Air (1997)
Description: A group of dangerous criminals hijack a prison transport plane, leading to a high-stakes battle for survival. Nicolas Cage stars as a former Army Ranger caught in the middle of the chaos.
Fact: The film's title is a play on words, combining "convict" and "air." Also, the plane used in the film was a modified Boeing 747, which was later used in other movies like "Executive Decision."


Turbulence (1997)
Description: A flight attendant must deal with a serial killer who has escaped custody on a plane. The film is known for its claustrophobic setting and intense action.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Flight 103" but was changed to avoid association with the Lockerbie bombing. Also, the airplane set was built to withstand the intense action scenes.


Red Eye (2005)
Description: While not a traditional hijack movie, "Red Eye" involves a tense situation on a plane where a woman is coerced into helping a terrorist. Rachel McAdams and Cillian Murphy deliver compelling performances.
Fact: The film was shot in just 24 days, and much of the action takes place in a single airplane set. Also, the title refers to the overnight flight and the red eyes of the characters due to lack of sleep.


Hijacked (2012)
Description: A former government agent must stop a terrorist from crashing a plane into a nuclear power plant. This lesser-known film still packs a punch with its intense plot and action sequences.
Fact: The film was shot in just 15 days, showcasing the efficiency of its production team. Also, it features real-life pilot training sequences to add authenticity.


Non-Stop (2014)
Description: Liam Neeson plays an air marshal who must stop a hijacker who is threatening to kill a passenger every 20 minutes unless a ransom is paid. The film keeps viewers guessing with its twisty plot.
Fact: The film was shot in a real Boeing 767, which was modified for filming. Also, the plot was inspired by the real-life incident of a bomb threat on an American Airlines flight in
