Movies Not to Watch on a Plane

Watching movies on a plane makes time fly. When you’re immersed the world onscreen, cramped seating, lackluster food, and wheezing seatmates fade into the background. And, with portable video players and phones that double as mini-cinemas, passengers aren’t limited to airlines’ selections. When it comes to in-flight movies, the sky’s the limit.

However, there are some imaginary worlds most people don’t want to be transported to at 35,000 feet. Here are some movies you may want to avoid until you’re back on solid ground:

Airplane!: Between the mass seafood-based food poisoning and the careening, unpiloted jet, this one is better enjoyed on the ground.  I am serious, and don’t call me Shirley.

Snakes on a Plane: Because snakes slithering out of air vents are funny until you’re sealed in at cruising altitude.

Alive: From happy flight to mountaintop crash and cannibalism in 127 minutes.

Outbreak: Recirculated air and sneezing seatmates don’t mix with this story of airborne virus that liquefies organs.

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Con Air: Dangerous prisoners highjack a plane and head toward Vegas. Nicolas Cage (and his hair extensions) is the only man who can stop them. Worst seatmates ever.

Other movies to avoid on planes:

Tear-jerkers: If it’s more than a two-tissue movie, save it for the ground unless you know your seatmate well enough to cry on his/her shoulder.

Epic movies: So much is lost on small screens. Choose movies that will provide an entertaining snack, and leave the visual feasts for later.

Looking for inspiration about what to watch on your next flight? Check out recent reader suggestions of their favorite movie destinations.

What other movies do you suggest steering clear of while traveling?