Flight Command

Ensign Alan Drake, fresh from flight school in Pensacola, is posted to the elite Fighting 8 squadron, the Hellcats, in San Diego. He makes a nearly disastrous landing in heavy fog and, during a competitive shooting exercise, collides with the target drogue, disqualifying the squadron. His rough initiation strains his relationship with the pilots.

Despite the rough start, Drake proves earnest and contrite, and gradually integrates with the Hellcats at the Garys' big house, used as an unofficial officers' club. His flying improves, and his social missteps fade as the pilots accept him, earning him the nickname Pensacola. The others begin to treat him as one of their own.

Drake assists Lieutenant Jerry Banning in addressing a problem with a blind-landing apparatus he's developing. He works with Banning's assistant to identify the fault and to lay groundwork for a proper test. The collaboration demonstrates his technical skill and willingness to contribute beyond flying.

After Commander Gary is out of town, Banning decides the apparatus is ready to test in fog. The test fails and Banning is killed in the crash. The tragedy underscores the risks involved and the need for Gary's return before further testing.

Lorna Gary sinks into a deep depression in the wake of Banning's death. Drake visits her at her home, and they share walks, drives, and tennis, offering each other solace. Through these moments, she begins to fall for him, though she keeps it restrained.

At a restaurant, Lorna reaches for Drake's hand and realizes she is falling for him. She quickly pulls away and says she cannot see him any more. The emotion of the moment forces a painful, abrupt boundary between them.

Upon Gary's return, Lorna tells him she needs to leave him for a while, explaining she cannot continue to hide her feelings after the tragedy. Gary is surprised but understanding, saying she should leave if she must, and that he loves her and hopes she will come back only if she loves him.

Lieutenant Commander Dusty Rhodes and the squadron confront Drake, accusing him of trying to take Lorna from Gary. Drake remains silent out of respect for her privacy, but he resigns in response, submitting the letter through channels.

During an emergency search and rescue, Gary's engine fails and he crashes. Drake defies orders and uses Banning's equipment to guide the rescue, removing his radio and positioning Gary for a safe landing. He leads his group of five planes down through the fog to safety.

Lorna returns to San Diego after receiving a telegram about Gary's crash and visits him in the hospital. Rhodes witnesses her praying for him, and there is a tearful reunion as she pledges to come home.

Rhodes informs Drake that his resignation has been turned down, and apologizes for his earlier behavior. Drake remains angry and contemplates a transfer, unsure if he will stay with the Hellcats.

Mugger Martin and the rest of the squadron urge Pensacola to stay, expressing their support and camaraderie. The show of solidarity helps Drake decide to remain with the Hellcats and continue his career there.