Flight 149: Hostage of War is a gripping new feature documentary from Sky that delves into one of the most extraordinary — and until recently, officially denied — chapters of the Gulf War. In a press release unveiling the trailer for this original film, which premieres in June across the U.K. and Ireland, Comcast-owned Sky described it as an unyielding exploration of geopolitical scandal and human resilience.
On August 2, 1990, just moments after Saddam Hussein's forces stormed Kuwait, a civilian flight unwittingly landed at the heart of the war zone. The passengers and crew found themselves trapped, held hostage by Saddam Hussein himself. They became unwilling pawns in a rapidly escalating international crisis that would forever reshape the Middle East. This harrowing journey unfolded against the backdrop of a world on edge, where every decision carried the weight of history.
Sky characterizes the documentary as "an unflinching exploration of a geopolitical scandal," shedding light on the stakes involved. For over three decades, the British government has steadfastly denied any prior knowledge of the invasion preceding the plane's ill-fated landing. However, newly uncovered information now challenges the official narrative. Surviving hostages are taking legal action against both the British government and British Airways (BA), seeking justice and uncovering long-buried truths.
Premiering on June 11 on Sky Documentaries and the Sky streaming service Now, Flight 149: Hostage of War weaves together powerful firsthand testimonies from key figures who lived through this ordeal. These voices include surviving hostages, brave Kuwaiti resistance fighters, investigative journalist Stephen Davis, and political insiders whose perspectives bring depth and authenticity to the story.
When plans for the documentary were first announced, Sky emphasized the scale of the tragedy: more than 385 men, women, and children were aboard the flight. Saddam Hussein broadcasted to the world that these passengers were now his “guests” and forbade them from leaving. Held as human shields in military and chemical plants across Iraq, they endured months of uncertainty during an international crisis that coincided with a pivotal moment in global geopolitics. Over five tense months, their stories unfolded under the watchful eyes of the world, marking a turning point in the West’s relationship with the Middle East. Caught between a ruthless dictator, allegations of espionage aboard the plane, a potential British government cover-up, and even unexpected involvement from Richard Branson, the hostages' plight remains a haunting reminder of humanity amidst chaos.
Produced by Drum Studios, the trailer for Flight 149: Hostage of War offers a glimpse into what audiences can expect. It features archival footage of then-U.K. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher alongside then-U.S. President George H.W. Bush, a chilling shot of Saddam Hussein, and poignant interviews with former hostages. Each frame captures the tension and urgency of those fateful days, inviting viewers to reflect on the fragility of peace and the strength of the human spirit.
Watch the trailer below and prepare to be moved by a story that redefines courage, truth, and survival.
