There's something undeniably thrilling about the chaos and high stakes of airport settings in action films. From hijackings to heists, these movies deliver adrenaline-pumping sequences that keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether it's the tension of a hostage situation or the excitement of a daring escape, these films showcase airports not just as transit hubs but as battlegrounds for intense action. Here's a curated list of 10 must-watch action films set in airports, each offering a unique blend of suspense, drama, and high-octane thrills.
Skyjacked (1972)
Description: A pilot must navigate a hijacked plane to a Soviet airbase, leading to intense negotiations and action at the airport. This film is a classic example of the 70s disaster movie genre.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Sound. It was one of the first films to deal with the theme of hijacking.
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The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
Description: Although primarily set on a subway, the film's climax involves a hostage situation at an airport, making it a fitting addition to this list.
Fact: The film was remade in 2009 with Denzel Washington and John Travolta. The original was noted for its realistic portrayal of New York City.
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Airport '77 (1977)
Description: A luxury plane crashes into the ocean, and the survivors must find a way to signal for help. The film includes dramatic airport scenes during the rescue efforts.
Fact: This was the third film in the "Airport" series, following "Airport" and "Airport
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The Delta Force (1986)
Description: This film features a dramatic hijacking of a commercial airliner, leading to a rescue operation by the elite Delta Force. The airport setting provides a backdrop for intense negotiations and action.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life hijacking of TWA Flight 847 in
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Executive Decision (1996)
Description: A team of commandos must board a hijacked plane mid-flight to thwart a terrorist plot. The film's climax takes place at an airport, showcasing the tension of the rescue mission.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Hijack" during production. It was one of the last films to feature Kurt Russell with a mustache.
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Air Force One (1997)
Description: When terrorists hijack Air Force One, the President must use his military skills to save his family and the country. The film includes gripping airport sequences during the rescue operation.
Fact: Harrison Ford did many of his own stunts, including a scene where he jumps from the plane. The film was a major box office success, grossing over $315 million worldwide.
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Con Air (1997)
Description: A plane full of the country's most dangerous criminals lands at an airport, leading to a high-stakes escape attempt. The film is known for its over-the-top action and memorable airport scenes.
Fact: The film's title is a play on words, referencing both the prisoners' status and the airline industry. Nicolas Cage's character, Cameron Poe, was originally written for Arnold Schwarzenegger.
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The Terminal (2004)
Description: While not an action film in the traditional sense, this Steven Spielberg film involves a man stuck in an airport, leading to a series of comedic and dramatic events. It's included for its unique airport setting.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years. Tom Hanks learned to speak some Bulgarian for his role.
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Red Eye (2005)
Description: A woman is forced into a deadly game of cat and mouse on a red-eye flight, with the tension culminating at the airport. The film blends psychological thriller elements with action.
Fact: The film was shot in just 25 days. Rachel McAdams and Cillian Murphy give compelling performances, with Murphy playing against type as the antagonist.
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Die Hard 2: Die Harder (1990)
Description: John McClane is back, this time fighting terrorists who have taken over Washington Dulles International Airport. The film captures the essence of airport chaos with its intense action sequences.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Die Hard 2: Die Harder" but was later changed to "Die Hard 2" for marketing reasons. Bruce Willis improvised many of his lines, adding to the character's charm.
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