There is a variety of genres to choose from whenever you find yourself in the mood to watch a movie. From comedy to action thrillers, the entertainment world has got everyone covered.
But regardless of your interests and taste in film, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of watching a fighter pilot movie.
Just thinking about the adrenaline-pumping action, the mesmerizing maneuvers, and the heart-stopping dogfights gives me the chills.
Pilot movies are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. But what about fighter pilot movies featuring black pilots?
Well, these are films that you can watch back to back with a fixed gaze on the screen.
Let’s look at some of the best black fighter pilot movies, from the classics like Tuskegee Airmen to modern-day favorites like Devotion.
This list has something for every fighter pilot movie enthusiast and anyone looking to give action thriller movies a go.
1. Devotion (2015)
This film is based on the book Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice, written by Adam Makos in 2015.
The 2022 movie is a war drama about the story of Navy fighter pilots Jesse Brown, the first African-American naval aviator in the United States Navy, and Tom Hudner during the Korean War.
It focuses on their friendship and Hudner’s efforts to save Brown after his plane crashes behind enemy lines.
The two comrades display bravery, sacrifice, and friendship amidst war. The movie highlights Jesse’s contributions and experiences as a pilot during the war.
Devotion is bound to give you a wide range of emotions as you follow the brotherly bond formed by the mutual trust these two pilots share.
2. Independence Day (1996)
The Black Pilot Fighter Independence Day movie is a science fiction film that features an extraterrestrial invasion of Earth.
If you are drawn to sci-fi films and TV shows, this is the ideal black fighter pilot film you can ever watch.
It is a classic movie that proves that old is gold. It follows a group of individuals, including a black pilot named Steven Hiller, played by Will Smith, who band together to thwart the alien attack and save humanity.
Hiller is the key player in the battle, who takes on the enemy in his advanced fighter jet.
3. Iron Eagle Sequel (1986, 1988, 1995)
The Black Fighter Pilot Sequel follows a young African American pilot named Chappy Sinclair, who trains a group of misfit pilots for a rescue mission in the Middle East.
Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and must work together to succeed.
The films contain impressive aerial stunts and action-packed scenes. Its portrayal of a black protagonist in a genre typically dominated by white characters made it a hit sequel.
The first movie, Iron Eagle, was released in 1986, and the fourth sequel in 1995. Fans of action movies and aviation enthusiasts still regard the script of this sequel a masterpiece.
4. Stealth (2005)
Stealth is a 2005 American science fiction action film that revolves around a team of pilots, including a black pilot, Lt. Henry Purcell, assigned to test a new state-of-the-art aircraft designed to replace human pilots.
The aircraft is equipped with advanced artificial intelligence, making it capable of flying faster and making better decisions than human pilots.
During a mission, the aircraft’s AI system malfunctions and starts acting independently, leading to a dangerous situation that could lead to a global catastrophe.
The pilots must now work together to stop the aircraft and prevent it from causing further damage. While it is a black fighter pilot movie, it consists of technological advancements and human responsibility themes.
5. Flight of the Intruder (1991)
Flight of the Intruder is based on a novel with the same title by Stephen Coonts, published in 1986.
The movie tells a story about the Vietnam War and the experiences of the United States Navy and Marine Corps pilots who took part in it.
The pilots are frustrated with their mission and decide to take matters into their own hands by going on unsanctioned missions.
One of the fighter pilots featured in the movie is Frank “Dooke” Camparelli, played by Danny Glover.
This film is filled with suspense, bound to leave you stuck to your seat from start to finish.
6. Tuskegee Men (1995)
The Tuskegee Airmen is a movie based on true story about the first African-American pilots and crew members in the United States military during World War II.
It follows the experiences of a group of young men who were trained at Tuskegee Army Air Field and faced discrimination and prejudice both in and out of the military because of their skin color.
Despite these challenges, they went on to become one of the most respected fighter squadrons in the war, earning a reputation as skilled and fearless pilots.
7. Red Tails (2012)
Red Tails is a 2012 war drama film directed by Anthony Hemingway and produced by George Lucas, paying homage to the heroic exploits of the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II.
The story follows a group of African American pilots as they train at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama before being deployed overseas to fight for their country against formidable odds.
The film’s strength lies in its portrayal of the bravery and determination of these trailblazers who faced not only enemy fire but also racism within their own ranks.
The movie stands out as an important cinematic tribute to the sacrifices made by the Tuskegee Airmen, whose legacy continues to inspire generations today.
8. Other Fighter Pilot Movies You Can Watch
While the following movies are not necessarily black fighter pilot movies, they are centered around fighter pilots and will also get you great adrenaline fix:
- Born To Fly (2023)
- Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
- Captain Marvel (2019)
- Greyhound Attack (2019)
- Dunkirk (2017)
- Sully (2016)
- USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage (2016)
- The Aviator (2004)
- Flyboys (2006)
- Stealth (2005)
- Always Ready (2005)
- Sky Fighters (2005)
- Burning Blue (2013)
- Pearl Harbor (2001)
- Dark Blue World (2001)
- Behind Enemy Lines (2001)
- Black Hawk Down (2001)
- Flight of Black Angel (1991)
- Flight of the Intruder (1991)
- The Rocketeer (1991)
- Hot Shots! (1991)
- Into the Sun (1991)
- Iron Eagle (1986)
- Firefox (1982)
- Battle of Britain (1969)
Black fighter pilot movies are action-packed. They showcase the bravery and heroism of black pilots who have contributed to the history of aviation. Whether you are a fan of sci-fi or war dramas, there is a black fighter pilot movie for everyone to enjoy. So grab some popcorn, sit back, relax, and enjoy watching these adrenaline-fueled movies in history.
