The theme of hijacking has always been a fertile ground for cinematic thrillers, offering a unique blend of suspense, action, and often, a deep dive into the psyche of those who dare to take control of the skies. This curated list of 10 films explores various facets of hijacking, from the desperate acts of terrorists to the cunning plans of master criminals. Each film brings its own twist to the genre, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves the tension of a high-stakes drama unfolding at 30,000 feet.

Skyjacked (1972)
Description: A commercial airliner is hijacked by a disgruntled Vietnam War veteran, leading to a tense standoff.
Fact: This was one of the first films to deal with the theme of hijacking in a commercial setting.


The Delta Force (1986)
Description: A terrorist group hijacks an American plane, leading to a rescue operation by an elite military unit.
Fact: Chuck Norris, who stars in the film, was also involved in the scriptwriting process.


Executive Decision (1996)
Description: A team of experts must board a hijacked plane mid-flight to neutralize a terrorist threat.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life hijacking of TWA Flight 847 in


Air Force One (1997)
Description: In this action-packed thriller, the President of the United States must save his family and country from terrorists who hijack his plane.
Fact: Harrison Ford did most of his own stunts, including the famous scene where he slides down the ramp of the plane.


Con Air (1997)
Description: A group of dangerous criminals hijack a prison transport plane, leading to an explosive showdown in the sky.
Fact: The film was originally titled "The Crazies" before being changed to "Con Air."


Flightplan (2005)
Description: A woman's daughter disappears on a plane, leading to a tense investigation that uncovers a hijacking plot.
Fact: Jodie Foster learned German for her role, as her character is an aircraft engineer.


Hijacked (2012)
Description: A former government agent must stop a group of hijackers on a commercial flight.
Fact: The film was shot in just 15 days.


Non-Stop (2014)
Description: An air marshal must stop a hijacker who is threatening to kill passengers unless a ransom is paid.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on a set built to mimic the interior of an airplane.


The Taking of Flight 847: The Uli Derickson Story (1988)
Description: This TV movie dramatizes the real-life hijacking of TWA Flight 847 by Hezbollah militants.
Fact: Uli Derickson, the real-life stewardess, served as a consultant for the film.


The Hijacking of Flight 375 (1976)
Description: Based on a true story, this film recounts the hijacking of a TWA flight from New York to Chicago.
Fact: The film was made with the cooperation of TWA, which allowed filming on one of their planes.
