Airports are places of transition, where people come and go, making them the perfect setting for suspense and horror. This curated list of 10 horror films set in airports offers a thrilling escape into the unknown, where every flight delay could mean something sinister. Whether you're a horror aficionado or just looking for a unique cinematic experience, these films will keep you on the edge of your seat, making you think twice about your next airport visit.

Airport '77 (1977)
Description: While not a horror film per se, this disaster movie features a plane that crashes into the ocean, and the survivors must navigate through the underwater wreckage, creating a sense of claustrophobic horror.
Fact: The film was the last in the "Airport" series and featured a star-studded cast including Jack Lemmon and James Stewart. The underwater scenes were shot in a large tank.


Turbulence (1997)
Description: A serial killer escapes on a Christmas Eve flight, turning the plane into a deadly trap. The airport scenes set up the tension before the flight takes off, making it a fitting addition to this list.
Fact: The film was Ray Liotta's first starring role in a feature film. The movie was criticized for its unrealistic portrayal of flight procedures.


The Forgotten (2004)
Description: While not set entirely in an airport, the film begins with a plane crash, and the airport becomes a significant location where the protagonist, played by Julianne Moore, searches for answers about her lost child.
Fact: The film's original ending was much darker, but it was changed to a more hopeful conclusion after test screenings. The movie delves into themes of memory and reality.


The Terminal (2004)
Description: Although primarily a comedy-drama, "The Terminal" has moments of suspense and tension as Tom Hanks' character is stuck in an airport due to a bureaucratic issue. The isolation and the unknown elements of the airport setting create a sense of unease.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years. The airport set was built in Los Angeles, covering 100,000 square feet.


Flightplan (2005)
Description: Jodie Foster plays a mother whose daughter disappears on a transatlantic flight. The film's setting, an airplane, serves as a metaphor for an airport, with its confined spaces and the mystery of what could happen in transit.
Fact: The film was shot on a set built to replicate an Airbus A380, which was not yet in commercial service at the time. The movie explores themes of loss and paranoia.


Airspeed (1998)
Description: A small plane carrying a family and a group of skydivers must navigate through a storm, leading to a series of terrifying events. The airport scenes at the beginning and end add to the suspense.
Fact: The film was shot in Canada, with many scenes filmed at the Vancouver International Airport. The movie was released directly to video in some regions.


Red Eye (2005)
Description: A woman is terrorized by a stranger on a red-eye flight from Dallas to Miami. While the action primarily takes place on the plane, the airport scenes set the stage for the ensuing terror.
Fact: Rachel McAdams was initially hesitant to take the role due to its violent nature but was convinced by the director Wes Craven. The film was shot in just 25 days.


Non-Stop (2014)
Description: Liam Neeson stars as an air marshal on a transatlantic flight who must stop a terrorist from killing passengers every 20 minutes. The film's tension is heightened by the claustrophobic setting of an airplane, which is essentially an airport in the sky.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on a set built to replicate an Airbus A


Terminal (2018)
Description: In this neo-noir thriller, an airport becomes the backdrop for a series of interconnected stories involving criminals, assassins, and a mysterious woman. While not strictly a horror film, its dark, twisted narrative and eerie atmosphere make it a fitting entry.
Fact: Margot Robbie plays three different characters in this film, showcasing her versatility. The movie was shot in Budapest, Hungary, which was transformed to look like a generic, eerie airport.


The Langoliers (1995)
Description: Based on a Stephen King novella, this miniseries features passengers on a flight who wake up to find everyone else has disappeared. The airport becomes a haunting, empty place where time itself seems to be unraveling.
Fact: The film was shot in Bangor, Maine, where Stephen King lives. The eerie, empty airport scenes were filmed at Bangor International Airport.
