If you're a fan of heart-pounding action, breathtaking aerial stunts, and the sheer thrill of flight, then this collection of films is right up your alley. These movies not only showcase the adrenaline-fueled world of aviation but also deliver gripping narratives, unforgettable characters, and, of course, some of the most iconic plane sequences ever captured on film. Whether you're looking for a dose of nostalgia or seeking out new cinematic heights, this curated list of action films about planes will take you on an exhilarating journey through the skies.

Iron Eagle (1986)
Description: A young pilot takes on a dangerous mission to rescue his father from a hostile country, showcasing some of the most thrilling aerial combat scenes of the '80s.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life Operation Opera, where Israeli Air Force jets bombed an Iraqi nuclear reactor. The F-16s used in the film were actually F-5s modified to look like F-16s.


Top Gun (1986)
Description: While not exclusively about planes, this film's aerial dogfights and the iconic training sequences at the Top Gun school make it an essential watch for aviation enthusiasts.
Fact: The film was a major hit, spawning a sequel in


Executive Decision (1996)
Description: A team of commandos must board a hijacked plane in mid-air to stop a terrorist plot. The film's intense aerial sequences and the suspense of the mission make it a standout in this genre.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Hijack," but was changed to avoid confusion with another film. The plane used was a Boeing 747-121, which was later scrapped.


The Rock (1996)
Description: Although primarily set on Alcatraz Island, the film features a memorable sequence involving a stealth fighter jet, making it a notable inclusion for its action and aerial elements.
Fact: The film was Michael Bay's directorial debut. The scene where the F-117 Nighthawk crashes was done with a real plane, which was later sold for parts.


Air Force One (1997)
Description: Featuring the President of the United States fighting off terrorists who have taken over his plane, this film combines political drama with high-octane action, making it a must-watch for plane enthusiasts.
Fact: The film's production was granted unprecedented access to the real Air Force One, allowing for authentic interior shots. Harrison Ford's character was originally written for Kevin Costner.


Con Air (1997)
Description: This film is a quintessential action flick where a group of dangerous convicts hijack a prison transport plane. The tension soars as high as the plane itself, making it a perfect fit for our list.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life incident where a prisoner escaped during a flight. Nicolas Cage did most of his own stunts, including the iconic scene where he jumps from the plane.


Flightplan (2005)
Description: Jodie Foster stars as a mother searching for her daughter who mysteriously disappears on a transatlantic flight. The film's unique setting and psychological tension make it a compelling watch.
Fact: The film was shot on a real Boeing 747, which was modified to include a set for the interior scenes. The plane was later used for parts.


Snakes on a Plane (2006)
Description: A unique blend of action, horror, and comedy, this film involves a plane full of passengers battling venomous snakes. It's an unforgettable experience in the sky.
Fact: The film's title became an internet meme, leading to a significant increase in its popularity. Samuel L. Jackson improvised his now-famous line, "I've had it with these motherfuckin' snakes on this motherfuckin' plane!"


Red Eye (2005)
Description: A tense thriller set on a red-eye flight where a woman must outwit a terrorist who has taken control of the plane. It's a masterclass in suspense and claustrophobic settings.
Fact: The film was shot in just 25 days. Rachel McAdams was initially hesitant to take the role due to its violent nature.


The Flight of the Phoenix (1965)
Description: A classic tale of survival where a group of men must rebuild an aircraft from the wreckage of their crashed plane in the desert. It's a gripping story of human ingenuity and determination.
Fact: The film was remade in 2004 with a different cast. The original was shot in the Yuma Desert, Arizona, to replicate the Sahara.
