Airplane! (1980) Timeline Explained – Every Event in Order

• fuboTV Stream · HD
• Paramount Plus Essential Stream · HD
• Paramount Plus Premium Stream · 4K
• Paramount+ Amazon Channel Stream · 4K
• Paramount+ Roku Premium Channel Stream · HD
• YouTube TV Stream · 4K
• Hoopla Free · SD
• Kanopy Free · HD
• YouTube Free Free with ads · HD
• Amazon Video Rent $3.99 · 4K
• Apple TV Store Rent $3.99 · 4K
• Fandango At Home Rent $3.99 · 4K
• Google Play Movies Rent $3.99 · SD
• Spectrum On Demand Rent $3.99 · HD
• YouTube Rent $3.99 · SD

Streaming availability powered by

1. 1

   Ted's Troubled Life

   Ted Striker, an ex-fighter pilot, struggles with his fears and the burden of his past. Now a taxi driver, he battles with a crippling fear of flying and a heavy reliance on alcohol, which causes him more problems than he can handle.

2. 2

   Elaine Breaks Up

   Elaine Dickinson, Ted's ex-girlfriend, working as a stewardess, decides to end their relationship. This breakup happens right before her flight from Los Angeles to Chicago, leaving Ted heartbroken and desperate to win her back.

   Where

   Los Angeles

3. 3

   Ted Buys a Ticket

   Determined to reclaim his lost love, Ted confronts his phobia of flying. He steps away from his taxi, buys a ticket for Elaine's flight, and prepares to face his greatest fear in order to be with her.

4. 4

   In-flight Chaos Begins

   As passengers settle in, the in-flight meal is served, and chaos suddenly erupts. Many passengers begin to fall ill, and it becomes clear that food poisoning is the culprit, leading to alarm in the cabin.

   Where

   Onboard the flight

5. 5

   Dr. Rumack Identifies the Problem

   During the crisis, Dr. Rumack steps up to identify the source of the food poisoning. His diagnosis reveals that the fish served was contaminated, setting off a frantic situation as more passengers succumb to the effects.

6. 6

   Flight Crew Becomes Unavailable

   As the situation worsens, the entire flight crew, including Captain Clarence Oveur and Roger Murdock, falls ill from the same food poisoning. With no one left to pilot the aircraft, a sense of panic begins to spread among the passengers.

   Where

   Onboard the flight

7. 7

   Elaine Calls for Help

   In a moment of desperation, Elaine takes charge and contacts the Chicago control tower. She speaks with tower supervisor Steve McCroskey, who offers guidance and suggests using the autopilot.

   Where

   Chicago Control Tower

8. 8

   Meet Otto the Autopilot

   The crew discovers the only remaining option is to use the autopilot, a comical inflatable dummy named Otto. This quirky solution adds a layer of absurdity to the dire situation they find themselves in.

9. 9

   Ted Struggles With Doubt

   As the emergency unfolds, Ted is called upon as the last hope for the flight. However, haunted by his traumatic past and fear of flying, he grapples with self-doubt and the weight of the situation.

10. 10

    Captain Rex Kramer's Arrival

    Understanding the gravity of the situation, McCroskey dispatches Captain Rex Kramer, Ted's former commanding officer, to guide him through the landing. Kramer provides crucial support and encouragement as they approach the crisis point.

11. 11

    Approaching Chicago

    While nearing Chicago, Ted faces a critical failure when he forgets to check the oil temperature, leading to an engine malfunction. The added difficulty of a severe thunderstorm wreaks havoc on visibility, complicating their descent.

    Where

    Near Chicago

12. 12

    Ted Confronts His Fears

    With Kramer's continuous support, Ted begins to muster his courage, pushing through his fears of flying. He skillfully navigates the challenges, focusing on executing a safe landing despite the adversities they face.

    Where

    Onboard the flight

13. 13

    Successful Emergency Landing

    Against all odds, Ted manages to successfully land the plane despite complications, including compromised landing gear. The outcome results in only minor injuries to the passengers, a feat that demonstrates his bravery.

    Where

    Chicago Airport

14. 14

    Romance Rekindled

    After the harrowing experience, Elaine is moved by Ted's bravery and determination. She embraces and kisses him, signaling a rekindling of their romance as they navigate their new beginning together.

15. 15

    Otto Takes Control

    In a humorous twist, as Ted and Elaine begin to reconnect, Otto the inflatable autopilot takes over the plane. Otto whimsically inflates a female companion, bringing the odd but lighthearted chaos to a close.

    Where

    Onboard the flight