Watching a film mid-flight might feel like the perfect way to pass the hours, but experts say certain genres could actually make anxious passengers feel worse.
According to research by Travel Republic, the most popular in-flight movie categories are drama, action, and comedy, followed by thriller, adventure, and documentary. But psychologist Rod Mitchell warns that one genre in particular should be avoided by nervous fliers — horror.
“Horror films on planes are like drinking espresso during a stress test,” he explained. “Disaster movies, especially those involving planes or confined spaces, trigger your mirror neurons, making you feel the danger yourself.”
Instead, Mitchell recommends animated films for a dose of nostalgia and comfort, or familiar, low-intensity movies you’ve already seen. These can help your nervous system relax.
Mysteries and adventure films can also be great “anxiety hijackers,” he said, as they redirect your focus from “what if this plane…” to “who’s the killer?” However, he suggests choosing whodunits over psychological thrillers to avoid unnecessary tension.
While dramas are the most available in-flight genre — with 254 titles — Mitchell advises anxious passengers to steer clear. “Heavy emotional dramas hit differently at altitude when you’re already tired and confined. Save the tear-jerkers for when your feet are on solid ground.”
