10 Movies & Shows Like Born to Fly (2023)

Description: A historical drama that delves into the lives of test pilots and astronauts, emphasizing their courage and the risks they take in pushing the boundaries of aviation and space exploration.

Fact: The film is based on Tom Wolfe's book of the same name, which chronicles the early days of the U.S. space program. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Original Score.

Description: This film is a high-octane military aviation drama that focuses on the intense training and camaraderie of fighter pilots. It captures the thrill of aerial combat and the personal challenges faced by those in the cockpit.

Fact: The aerial sequences were so realistic that the U.S. Navy reported an increase in enlistment following the film's release. The actors underwent actual flight training to prepare for their roles.

Description: A military thriller that follows a pilot shot down over hostile territory, showcasing his survival skills and the efforts to rescue him. It emphasizes the dangers and unpredictability of aerial missions.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life experiences of a U.S. Navy pilot during the Bosnian War. The aerial sequences were filmed using actual military aircraft.

Description: A war film that combines a love story with intense aerial combat sequences, focusing on the events leading up to and during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Fact: The attack scenes required extensive coordination with the U.S. Navy and the use of real aircraft carriers. The film's budget was one of the highest at the time of its release.

Description: A sci-fi action film that explores the use of advanced AI in military aviation, focusing on the ethical dilemmas and high-stakes missions faced by pilots.

Fact: The film's futuristic aircraft were designed with input from actual aerospace engineers. It was one of the first movies to explore the concept of AI-controlled fighter jets.

Description: This movie highlights the bravery and skill of the Tuskegee Airmen, focusing on their aerial combat missions during World War II. It showcases the challenges and triumphs of pilots in a historical context.

Fact: The film was inspired by the true story of the first African-American pilots to serve in the U.S. military. Many of the aerial scenes were created using CGI to replicate vintage aircraft.

Description: A sequel that continues to explore the world of elite fighter pilots, emphasizing cutting-edge aviation technology and the emotional and physical demands of being a top aviator.

Fact: The film used real fighter jets and minimal CGI to achieve its breathtaking aerial sequences. It took over 30 years to develop the sequel due to the complexity of the flight scenes.

Description: This film explores the life of a commercial airline pilot who becomes a hero after a miraculous crash landing, but it also delves into his personal struggles and the pressures of the profession.

Fact: The crash sequence was praised for its realism and was achieved using a combination of practical effects and CGI. The film was nominated for two Academy Awards.

Description: A biographical drama that recounts the true story of a pilot who successfully landed a damaged plane on the Hudson River, saving all passengers. It highlights the quick thinking and expertise required in aviation emergencies.

Fact: The film is based on the autobiography of Captain Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger. The flight simulation scenes were meticulously recreated using actual flight data from the incident.

Description: A historical war film that depicts the Battle of Midway, a pivotal naval battle in World War II, with a strong emphasis on aerial combat and strategic decision-making.

Fact: The film used a mix of practical effects and CGI to recreate the battle scenes. It was released to coincide with the 77th anniversary of the Battle of Midway.