Airplane hijackings have long been a staple of high-stakes drama in cinema, offering viewers a mix of suspense, action, and often, a deep dive into human psychology under extreme pressure. This curated list of 10 films not only showcases the intensity of such scenarios but also provides a variety of perspectives on how these events unfold, from the perspective of the hijackers, the passengers, and the authorities. Each film brings something unique to the table, making this collection invaluable for fans of thrillers, action, and suspense.

Skyjacked (1972)
Description: One of the earliest films to deal with airplane hijacking, focusing on the tense negotiations and the personal stories of the passengers.
Fact: It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Sound.


The Delta Force (1986)
Description: Based on the real-life hijacking of TWA Flight 847, this film follows an elite military unit's attempt to rescue hostages from a hijacked plane.
Fact: Chuck Norris and Lee Marvin starred together, marking one of Marvin's last roles before his death.


Passenger 57 (1992)
Description: An ex-SWAT officer must stop a terrorist from hijacking a plane. It's a blend of action and suspense with a focus on one man's fight against the odds.
Fact: Wesley Snipes was originally offered the role of the villain.


Executive Decision (1996)
Description: A team of commandos must board a hijacked plane in mid-air to prevent a terrorist attack. The film is notable for its realistic portrayal of in-flight operations and counter-terrorism tactics.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Hijack."


Air Force One (1997)
Description: This film features the President of the United States fighting off terrorists who have hijacked his plane. It's a classic example of a high-stakes hijacking scenario with a twist of political intrigue.
Fact: Harrison Ford did most of his own stunts, including a scene where he jumps from the plane's cargo door.


Con Air (1997)
Description: While not a traditional hijacking, the film involves a group of prisoners taking over a prison transport plane, leading to a thrilling chase and battle in the air.
Fact: The film's title was inspired by the slang term for the Justice Prisoner and Alien Transportation System.


Turbulence (1997)
Description: A flight attendant must stop a serial killer who has taken over the plane after killing the pilots. It's a unique take on the hijacking theme with a focus on survival.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use CGI for a plane crash sequence.


Red Eye (2005)
Description: A more intimate hijacking where a woman is coerced into assisting a terrorist plot during a flight. It's less about the physical takeover and more about psychological manipulation.
Fact: The film was shot in just 24 days.


Non-Stop (2014)
Description: An air marshal must stop a hijacker who is threatening to kill passengers every 20 minutes unless a ransom is paid. It's a modern take on the hijacking theme with a twist of technology.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on a set built to replicate the interior of a Boeing


Hijack (2008)
Description: A group of terrorists hijack a plane to use it as a weapon. The film focuses on the intense negotiations and the efforts to prevent a catastrophic event.
Fact: The film was shot in real-time, adding to the tension.
