Embark on a journey through the skies with our curated list of fantasy films where flying machines are not just a mode of transport but a central part of the narrative. These films offer a blend of adventure, wonder, and sometimes, a touch of steampunk, making them perfect for anyone who dreams of soaring above the clouds. Whether it's a whimsical airship or a futuristic flying car, these movies will take you on a breathtaking ride.

The Dark Crystal (1982)
Description: While not primarily about flying machines, this fantasy film features a memorable scene with a flying creature that serves as a transport for the characters.
Fact: The film was a pioneering effort in puppetry and animatronics, with the flying creature being one of the most complex puppets created for the film.


The Rocketeer (1991)
Description: In this action-adventure, a young pilot discovers a rocket pack that allows him to fly, leading to a thrilling escapade involving Nazis and Hollywood stars. The film captures the spirit of the 1930s with its flying contraption.
Fact: The film was inspired by the comic book series of the same name. The rocket pack was designed to look like the one from the comics, but it was actually a complex prop that required multiple versions for different scenes.


The City of Lost Children (1995)
Description: This surreal film includes scenes with a flying machine, a submarine-like vessel that navigates through the air, adding to the film's dreamlike quality.
Fact: The film was co-directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro, known for their visually rich and imaginative storytelling.


The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003)
Description: This steampunk adventure brings together literary characters in a world where Victorian technology includes flying machines, like the Nautilus submarine and the airship.
Fact: The film's airship, the Nautilus, was designed to be a hybrid of a submarine and an airship, reflecting the steampunk aesthetic.


The Golden Compass (2007)
Description: Set in a parallel universe, this film features flying machines like the zeppelins used by the Magisterium, adding to the world's unique blend of fantasy and technology.
Fact: The film's production involved creating detailed models of the zeppelins, which were then enhanced with CGI for the flying scenes.


The Secret of Kells (2009)
Description: An animated film where a young boy encounters magical creatures and a mystical book, with scenes featuring a flying ship that adds to the film's ethereal atmosphere.
Fact: The film uses a unique animation style inspired by the illuminated manuscripts of the Middle Ages, giving the flying ship a dreamlike quality.


Stardust (2007)
Description: A young man ventures into a magical realm to retrieve a fallen star, encountering flying pirate ships and other fantastical elements along the way.
Fact: The film features a memorable scene with a flying pirate ship, which was created using a combination of practical effects and CGI to give it a whimsical, yet believable appearance.


The Last Airbender (2010)
Description: In this adaptation of the animated series, characters can manipulate the elements, including air, which allows for scenes with flying machines and gliders.
Fact: The film's airbending scenes were inspired by martial arts, with the flying gliders being a key element in the bending abilities.


The Adventures of Tintin (2011)
Description: Tintin and his companions embark on a treasure hunt that involves a model ship which leads to a real flying ship, the Unicorn, in this animated adventure.
Fact: The film was directed by Steven Spielberg and uses motion capture technology to bring the comic book characters to life, including the flying ship scenes.


The Aeronauts (2019)
Description: This film follows a scientist and a pilot who set out in a hot air balloon to break records and make scientific discoveries, showcasing the beauty and danger of early aviation.
Fact: The balloon used in the film was one of the largest ever built for a movie, measuring 90 feet in diameter. The film's balloon flight scenes were shot over 21 days, with actors performing their own stunts.
