10 Best Movies Set Entirely or Primarily on Planes

Airplanes are more than just a way to travel—they’re a perfect stage for gripping stories. The tight space, high stakes, and sense of being cut off from the world make them a unique setting for drama, action, and even comedy. Whether it’s a tense thriller or a lighthearted spoof, movies set on planes capture our imagination with their mix of excitement and claustrophobia.

We’ve rounded up the 10 best movies that take place entirely or mostly on planes, each offering a different take on what happens at 30,000 feet. From heart-pounding hijackings to laugh-out-loud chaos, these films show why the sky is such a thrilling backdrop. Here’s our list, counting down from number 10 to the top spot.

10. Flightplan (2005)

A mother’s worst nightmare unfolds in ‘Flightplan,’ where Jodie Foster plays Kyle Pratt, an engineer whose daughter vanishes mid-flight on a massive double-decker jet. The plane’s confined setting ramps up the tension as Kyle searches frantically, only to face doubt from the crew and passengers who claim her daughter was never on board.

Foster’s intense performance drives this psychological thriller, keeping us glued to the mystery. The airplane’s tight corridors and hidden compartments become a character in themselves, adding to the sense of paranoia and urgency. It’s a gripping ride that makes you question what’s real.

9. Snakes on a Plane (2006)

‘Snakes on a Plane’ delivers exactly what its title promises—a wild, over-the-top action flick starring Samuel L. Jackson as an FBI agent battling a crate of deadly snakes unleashed on a flight. The premise is absurd, but that’s the charm, as Jackson’s character fights to save passengers from venomous chaos.

This campy thriller leans into its B-movie roots with gleeful energy. The plane’s close quarters amplify the panic, turning every seat and overhead bin into a potential snake hideout. It’s a fun, adrenaline-pumping ride that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

8. Passenger 57 (1992)

Wesley Snipes shines as John Cutter, a security expert caught on a hijacked plane in ‘Passenger 57.’ When terrorists led by a cunning villain take control, Cutter uses his skills to outwit them, delivering classic ‘90s action in a high-flying setting.

The film’s fast-paced fight scenes and Snipes’ cool-headed heroism make it a standout. The airplane’s narrow aisles and limited escape routes heighten the stakes, forcing Cutter to get creative. It’s a lean, thrilling ride that captures the era’s action-movie spirit.

7. United 93 (2006)

‘United 93’ is a gut-wrenching drama that recreates the events of United Airlines Flight 93 during the September 11 attacks. Directed by Paul Greengrass, the film follows the passengers and crew who fought back against hijackers, preventing the plane from reaching its intended target.

Shot in a raw, real-time style, the movie feels hauntingly authentic. The plane’s cabin becomes a battleground for courage and sacrifice, making every moment intense. It’s a powerful tribute to heroism that leaves a lasting impact.

6. Non-Stop (2014)

Liam Neeson stars as Bill Marks, an air marshal facing a deadly game in ‘Non-Stop.’ A mysterious texter threatens to kill a passenger every 20 minutes unless a ransom is paid, turning the transatlantic flight into a high-stakes whodunit.

Neeson’s commanding presence anchors the film’s relentless suspense. The airplane setting traps everyone—suspects and hero alike—forcing Marks to unravel the plot in real time. It’s a clever, pulse-pounding thriller that keeps you guessing until the end.

5. Airplane! (1980)

‘Airplane!’ is the ultimate spoof of disaster movies, packed with slapstick humor and iconic gags. When food poisoning takes out the crew, a traumatized ex-pilot (Robert Hays) must land the plane, leading to absurdly funny chaos in the cockpit and cabin.

This comedy gem thrives on its relentless jokes and clever wordplay. The plane’s tight space amplifies the ridiculousness, with every seat and tray table sparking a laugh. It’s a timeless classic that still has us chuckling.

4. 7500 (2019)

In ‘7500,’ Joseph Gordon-Levitt plays Tobias, a co-pilot thrust into a nightmare when terrorists attempt to hijack his Berlin-to-Paris flight. The film unfolds almost entirely in the cockpit, creating an intimate, claustrophobic thriller.

Gordon-Levitt’s understated performance carries the emotional weight as Tobias fights to protect the passengers. The cockpit’s limited space makes every decision feel urgent, pulling us into the tension. It’s a raw, gripping take on the airplane thriller genre.

3. Red Eye (2005)

‘Red Eye’ turns a chance airplane encounter into a chilling ordeal. Rachel McAdams plays Lisa, a hotel manager seated next to Jackson (Cillian Murphy), who reveals himself as a terrorist with a deadly plan. He forces her to comply, or her father faces death.

Wes Craven’s direction keeps the suspense tight, using the plane’s confined setting to trap Lisa in a psychological chess game. McAdams and Murphy’s chemistry fuels the tension, making this a sleek, nerve-wracking thriller that soars.

2. Con Air (1997)

Nicolas Cage leads an all-star cast in ‘Con Air,’ playing Cameron Poe, a paroled ex-Ranger on a prison transport plane hijacked by dangerous convicts. With John Malkovich as the sinister mastermind, the film delivers explosive ‘90s action.

The plane’s chaotic, cramped environment fuels the high-octane battles, from fistfights to fiery crashes. Cage’s wild energy and the colorful cast make every scene a blast. It’s a larger-than-life thrill ride that never slows down.

1. Air Force One (1997)

Taking the top spot, ‘Air Force One’ stars Harrison Ford as President James Marshall, fighting terrorists led by Gary Oldman who hijack the presidential plane. Ford’s gritty heroism and the iconic line ‘Get off my plane!’ cement its status as a classic.

The film uses the luxurious yet confined Air Force One to stage intense action and political drama. Every corridor and compartment becomes a battlefield, keeping the stakes sky-high. It’s the ultimate airplane thriller, blending heart and heroics.

Which of these high-flying films is your favorite, or did we miss a sky-bound gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!