Air America

In 1969, a local communist peasant in Laos takes a shot at a US transport aircraft flying overhead. Despite being hit and trailing smoke, the aircraft manages to return, but eventually crashes, resulting in multiple crew fatalities.

The story transitions to Los Angeles, where Billy Covington works as a helicopter traffic pilot. His reckless flying leads to the FAA suspending his pilot's license, leaving him in a precarious job situation.

A mysterious government agent approaches Billy with a proposition: he can regain his pilot's license if he accepts a job with Air America in Laos. Despite concerns, Billy feels forced to accept the offer due to his unemployment.

Upon arriving in Laos, Billy is introduced to the eclectic group of pilots at Air America. He bonds with Gene Ryack, who reveals his dual role in arms dealing under the guise of a civilian pilot.

Senator Davenport arrives on a 'fact-finding mission' to investigate claims of Air America's involvement in drug trafficking. The CIA operatives in charge go to great lengths to hide the illegal activities happening under their watch.

While delivering livestock to rural villages, Billy's plane is shot down. The situation worsens as General Soong’s soldiers arrive to load bags of opium, leaving Billy and his co-pilot at the mercy of hostile forces.

Just as they are about to be captured by Communist Pathet Lao forces, Billy and Jack are rescued by Gene and another pilot. However, their brief escape is cut short when their helicopter is shot down by enemy troops.

After their helicopter crash, Billy and Gene are captured by a local tribe. Gene cleverly strikes a deal with them, trading superior weapons for their freedom, showcasing his resourcefulness in dire situations.

Back in safety, Billy is shocked to find that Gene has a family, which further complicates his view of the operations in Laos. Gene encourages Billy to leave Air America, but Billy is focused on revenge against General Soong.

The situation escalates when the pilots learn about the death of Jack. In a twist, Lemond and Diehl falsely accuse him of being the mastermind behind the drug trafficking, which only fuels Billy's desire for vengeance.

Consumed by rage, Billy takes action by acquiring grenades and attacking a heroin factory linked to their operations. This reckless act draws the attention of the guards, putting his life in further jeopardy.

Gene successfully finds a buyer for his weapons stockpile, allowing him to leave the arms trade. He makes plans to relocate his family, illustrating his desire to escape the chaos surrounding Air America.

Although considering quitting, Billy reluctantly accepts one final flight assignment to deliver flour to a refugee camp. Their mission takes a dark turn when they discover heroin hidden in the flour sacks.

Sensing trouble, Gene comes to Billy's aid during the precarious situation at the airstrip. Together, they devise a plan to sell off their aircraft to reclaim Gene's stolen funds.

As the political tension heightens, Senator Davenport becomes increasingly suspicious of the CIA's corrupt operations in Laos. He threatens to expose Lemond and Diehl, raising the stakes for everyone involved.