Character Relationship Map: Airplane!

Characters

• Ted Striker (played by Robert Hays) — protagonist

  Traumatized ex-fighter pilot turned taxi driver who overcomes his fear of flying to save a plane.

• Elaine Dickinson (played by Julie Hagerty) — protagonist

  Flight attendant and Ted's former girlfriend who helps him pilot the aircraft during the crisis.

• Dr. Rumack (played by Leslie Nielsen) — supporting

  Passenger who diagnoses food poisoning and guides Ted to take control of the aircraft.

• Steve McCroskey (played by Lloyd Bridges) — supporting

  Tower supervisor who guides Ted through the landing procedure via radio.

Key Relationships

• Elaine Dickinson → Steve McCroskey (Professional Flight Attendant To Tower)
• Elaine Dickinson → Dr. Rumack (Alliance Crisis Partners)
• Ted Striker → Steve McCroskey (Professional Pilot To Supervisor)
• Ted Striker → Dr. Rumack (Alliance Crisis Convincer)
• Ted Striker → Elaine Dickinson (Romantic Former Lovers)

Story Analysis

A traumatized pilot overcomes his fear to land a poisoned aircraft with help from his ex-girlfriend and ground control.

Plot Progression

1. Departure and Rejection
2. Crisis on Board
3. The Desperate Ascent
4. Landing and Resolution