Flight 149 (w/t) NewOriginal Documentary Film for Sky Documentaries

Flight 149 (w/t) is the title of the documentary feature that Sky Documentaries has commissioned. The kidnapping of British Airways Flight 149 passengers is a pivotal event in British political history, and Drum Studios’ upcoming film will explore this topic. The unanticipated invasion of Kuwait by Iraq took place on August 2, 1990. With more than 385 people on board, the plane touched down in Kuwait City as planned but never continued on to its intended destination.

With Kuwait City under occupation, Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein declared the passengers of the plane as his “guests” and prohibited them from leaving. The hostages were held as human shields in military and chemical plants across Iraq, leading to an escalating international crisis. The documentary will explore the tense hostage situation that unfolded over the next five months, coinciding with a pivotal moment in geopolitical history that would alter the West’s relationship with the Middle East.

During their captivity, the hostages endured extreme conditions, including near starvation, mock executions, rape, and constant fear. The film will feature testimonies from the hostages themselves, politicians from both sides of the Atlantic, and individuals from the Kuwaiti resistance who risked their lives to hide the hostages. Additionally, individuals who knew Saddam Hussein will provide unique insights into the psychology of the dictator during this critical moment in his relationship with the West.

Flight 149 (w/t) has been commissioned by Sky Documentaries and will be directed by Jenny Ash. The executive producers are Sam Bagnall and Mark Henderson, both award-winning filmmakers. The documentary will be produced by Drum Studios in association with Sky Studios. International sales of the series will be handled by NBCUniversal Global Distribution on behalf of Sky Studios.