Airplane! Scene 13 Summary

  • While the passengers watch some not so encouraging in-flight entertainment (a film about the aftermath of a plane crash), the ground team assembles in the control tower to prepare for the emergency landing.
  • Elaine reveals to Ted that she's very proud. "The gear is down and we're ready to land," a beaming Elaine tells the ground control at Ted's request.
  • Just then, Dr. Rumack enters the cabin, offering a few words of encouragement with one of his most famous taglines: "Good luck. We're all counting on you."
  • Kramer begins to talk Ted down, explaining the landing procedure.
  • While McCroskey's substance habits escalate further, the airplane begins to descend through the fog, hurtling towards the ground. Kramer tells him he's coming in too fast; Ted knows.
  • "Straighten your nose," "watch your speed," "ease up on the throttle"—the commands are overwhelming. Ted, although drowning in sweat, is still able to get the plane on the ground. Sort of.
  • As the plane skids down the runway, past gate eight, nine, ten, eleven, etc., Dr. Rumack enters, reiterating his classic line. "Good luck. We're all counting on you."
  • Though the landing gear's completely trashed, the plane grinds to a stop. Ted has done it.