There's something uniquely gripping about a film that combines the high-stakes drama of a plane hijacking with the intricate puzzle-solving of a detective story. These films not only keep you on the edge of your seat with their nail-biting tension but also engage your mind with clever plot twists and character development. Whether you're a fan of classic whodunits or modern thrillers, this curated list of ten detective films about plane hijackings will offer a thrilling cinematic experience that's hard to beat.
Skyjacked (1972)
Description: This film, based on the novel "Hijacked," follows a pilot who must deal with a hijacker's demands while trying to save his passengers, showcasing detective-like negotiation skills.
Fact: It was one of the first films to deal with the subject of hijacking, reflecting the era's growing concern with airline security.
Watch Now
The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
Description: Although set on a subway train, the film's premise of a hijacking and the subsequent detective work to resolve the situation makes it a fitting addition to this list.
Fact: The film was remade in 2009 with Denzel Washington and John Travolta. The original was praised for its realistic portrayal of New York City's transit system.
Watch Now
The Delta Force (1986)
Description: A special forces team must rescue hostages from a hijacked plane, involving detective work to understand the terrorists' motives and plan.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life hijacking of TWA Flight
Watch Now
Passenger 57 (1992)
Description: An ex-SWAT cop must use his detective skills to stop a terrorist from hijacking a plane and killing passengers.
Fact: Wesley Snipes improvised many of his lines, adding to the film's gritty realism. The film was a surprise hit, spawning a direct-to-video sequel.
Watch Now
Executive Decision (1996)
Description: A team of experts must board a hijacked plane mid-flight to disarm a bomb and rescue the passengers, showcasing detective-like problem-solving under extreme pressure.
Fact: The film features a real Boeing 747, which was purchased specifically for the movie and later used in other productions. Kurt Russell's character was originally written for Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Watch Now
Air Force One (1997)
Description: This film is a classic example of a plane hijacking turned into a personal mission for the President of the United States, who must save his family and country from terrorists.
Fact: Harrison Ford did most of his own stunts, including the famous fight scene in the cargo hold. The film was a box office hit, grossing over $315 million worldwide.
Watch Now
Con Air (1997)
Description: While not strictly a detective film, the plot involves a hijacked prison transport plane, and the protagonist, a former Army Ranger, must use his skills to thwart the criminals.
Fact: The film features an all-star cast of villains, including John Malkovich and Steve Buscemi. The plane used in the film was a real, decommissioned DC-
Watch Now
Turbulence (1997)
Description: A flight attendant must use her wits to survive when two serial killers escape custody and hijack the plane.
Fact: The film was Ray Liotta's first venture into the thriller genre after his acclaimed performance in "Goodfellas." It was also one of the first films to use CGI for plane interiors.
Watch Now
Red Eye (2005)
Description: A seemingly ordinary flight turns into a nightmare when a woman is forced by a fellow passenger to help with a terrorist plot, requiring her to think like a detective to escape.
Fact: The film was shot in just 25 days. Rachel McAdams and Cillian Murphy give standout performances in this tense thriller.
Watch Now
Hijack (2008)
Description: A detective must solve a hostage situation on a plane, dealing with a hijacker who has a personal vendetta.
Fact: The film was shot in Vancouver, Canada, using a real Boeing 737 for authenticity. It was released directly to DVD.
30 Days Free
