1 00:00:25,859 --> 00:00:28,567 [INDISTINCT VOICES ECHOING] 2 00:00:28,695 --> 00:00:31,135 Sir, I'm gonna ask your permission for an additional pat down. 3 00:00:46,755 --> 00:00:48,166 You're clear. 4 00:00:49,383 --> 00:00:50,464 Thank you. 5 00:00:52,010 --> 00:00:53,421 - Oh. - It's all right. 6 00:00:55,055 --> 00:00:56,842 WOMAN: Enjoy your flight. 7 00:00:56,974 --> 00:00:58,431 [INDISTINCT CHATTER] 8 00:00:58,600 --> 00:01:00,000 [PIANO PLAYING "FLY ME TO THE MOON"] 9 00:01:08,360 --> 00:01:09,420 - No. No, it's you. - Sorry. 10 00:01:09,444 --> 00:01:11,026 - It's all you. - Nah, go ahead. 11 00:01:11,154 --> 00:01:12,114 Wait. 12 00:01:12,115 --> 00:01:13,855 Justin Sanderson. 13 00:01:14,241 --> 00:01:15,402 Is this you? 14 00:01:15,784 --> 00:01:17,901 Didn't I see you debating on TV? 15 00:01:18,078 --> 00:01:20,991 - Yeah. - Well, then... then, this is yours. 16 00:01:21,915 --> 00:01:25,249 Um... Okay, well, how about in the name of civility, 17 00:01:25,377 --> 00:01:27,084 I, uh, I get this for you. 18 00:01:27,212 --> 00:01:29,295 - Oh, Justin, I'm honored. - Okay. 19 00:01:29,464 --> 00:01:31,421 Never met a magazine writer before. 20 00:01:31,550 --> 00:01:33,257 Joe Beaumont. 21 00:01:33,385 --> 00:01:35,126 - Oh, uh, Justin Sanderson. - Ah. 22 00:01:35,304 --> 00:01:36,715 Oh. You wouldn't mind... 23 00:01:37,973 --> 00:01:39,259 Would you sign it for me? 24 00:01:39,725 --> 00:01:41,307 Sure. Be happy to. 25 00:01:41,476 --> 00:01:43,388 - To Joe. With an "E." - Joe. 26 00:01:43,979 --> 00:01:46,346 "Joe... with... 27 00:01:46,481 --> 00:01:48,393 an 'E.'" 28 00:01:49,109 --> 00:01:51,977 - Thank you. Be seeing you. - Okay. 29 00:01:53,196 --> 00:01:55,904 WOMAN: [OVER PA] At this time, Northern Gold Star Airlines 30 00:01:56,033 --> 00:01:57,677 would like to invite its Privileged Class passengers 31 00:01:57,701 --> 00:01:59,283 - [LINE RINGING] - to Flight 1015, 32 00:01:59,411 --> 00:02:03,280 now departing at 10:15, to please board at Gate B15. 33 00:02:03,415 --> 00:02:05,828 - WOMAN: Justin? - Honey. 34 00:02:05,959 --> 00:02:08,167 So glad I got you before my flight took off. 35 00:02:08,295 --> 00:02:09,581 Hi. 36 00:02:09,713 --> 00:02:10,999 Are you okay? 37 00:02:11,173 --> 00:02:13,085 I am so sorry about before. 38 00:02:13,216 --> 00:02:16,004 I... I really didn't mean to raise my voice like that. 39 00:02:16,178 --> 00:02:18,010 I don't think this is a good idea. 40 00:02:18,138 --> 00:02:20,130 I know. I just... I need the work. 41 00:02:20,265 --> 00:02:23,599 Honey, you're not listening. You promised me. 42 00:02:23,727 --> 00:02:25,889 No, I know. I... I am listening to you. 43 00:02:26,021 --> 00:02:27,432 And I am keeping that promise. 44 00:02:27,606 --> 00:02:29,848 - How? - Well, because this assignment 45 00:02:30,025 --> 00:02:32,312 will be the opposite of high stress. 46 00:02:32,444 --> 00:02:34,026 You don't know that. 47 00:02:34,196 --> 00:02:37,564 Because Tel Aviv is not Yemen, hon. It's... 48 00:02:37,699 --> 00:02:40,567 Look. I saw some fucked-up shit, 49 00:02:40,702 --> 00:02:44,036 and... it shook me up. 50 00:02:45,248 --> 00:02:48,286 - It would've shook anyone up, but... - I know, honey. 51 00:02:48,418 --> 00:02:52,287 Remember what Dr. Cravat says: the past is the past. 52 00:02:52,422 --> 00:02:54,209 Past is the past. 53 00:02:54,383 --> 00:02:57,000 And that will help me get through the now. 54 00:02:57,135 --> 00:02:58,671 That's right. 55 00:02:59,304 --> 00:03:01,717 As will thinking about you. 56 00:03:01,848 --> 00:03:03,931 Okay. We're good? 57 00:03:04,059 --> 00:03:05,175 I love you. 58 00:03:05,352 --> 00:03:09,892 Oh, one last thing. I just noticed my flight number is 1015, 59 00:03:10,023 --> 00:03:11,559 and it's October 15th. 60 00:03:11,692 --> 00:03:16,153 And also, the departure time was delayed from 9:30 to 10:15. 61 00:03:16,279 --> 00:03:18,066 What are the odds of that? 62 00:03:19,658 --> 00:03:21,570 - [BEEPS] - Have a safe flight. 63 00:03:21,702 --> 00:03:22,818 Hi. How are you? 64 00:03:22,994 --> 00:03:24,986 [INDISTINCT CHATTER] 65 00:03:33,839 --> 00:03:35,171 Thanks. 66 00:03:36,758 --> 00:03:38,374 Welcome aboard. 67 00:03:39,761 --> 00:03:41,718 Good flight today? 68 00:03:41,888 --> 00:03:43,720 Oh, yeah. Very good. Welcome aboard. 69 00:03:43,849 --> 00:03:45,340 Thank you. 70 00:03:45,475 --> 00:03:48,559 I'm sorry, but only an infant can travel in a seat with a parent. 71 00:03:48,687 --> 00:03:50,724 Children two to 11 need their own seat. 72 00:03:50,856 --> 00:03:53,835 I'm sure they'll discount the fare for you. We're only two-thirds occupancy. 73 00:03:53,859 --> 00:03:56,146 But you said first class is full. 74 00:03:56,278 --> 00:03:58,691 Yeah. I would have to move you to the main cabin. 75 00:03:58,822 --> 00:04:00,404 - JUSTIN: Excuse me. - Yes, but... 76 00:04:00,532 --> 00:04:04,617 That's actually my seat there, and they can have it if they need it. 77 00:04:06,079 --> 00:04:07,240 - Yeah, that's fine. - Yeah. 78 00:04:07,372 --> 00:04:09,830 - Is that okay? - Yeah. 79 00:04:09,958 --> 00:04:11,620 Thank you. That's very nice of you. 80 00:04:11,793 --> 00:04:14,605 - So is there a place I should sit? - Yes. Main cabin should be pretty thin 81 00:04:14,629 --> 00:04:16,349 on that side, towards the back. Stretch out. 82 00:04:16,423 --> 00:04:17,423 All right. 83 00:04:22,804 --> 00:04:25,116 WOMAN: [OVER PA] Flight attendants, prepare doors for departure. 84 00:04:25,140 --> 00:04:26,381 Cross check. 85 00:04:32,481 --> 00:04:34,473 [THUNDER RUMBLING] 86 00:04:48,663 --> 00:04:50,120 [THUNDER CRASHES] 87 00:04:54,419 --> 00:04:56,147 WOMAN: [OVER PA] At this time, on behalf of the crew 88 00:04:56,171 --> 00:04:58,051 of Flight 1015 from Washington, DC, to Tel Aviv, 89 00:04:58,131 --> 00:05:00,248 we'd like to welcome you on board and invite you 90 00:05:00,383 --> 00:05:02,236 to take the safety information card out of the seat pocket 91 00:05:02,260 --> 00:05:05,140 in front of you, and follow along as we perform our safety demonstration. 92 00:05:07,349 --> 00:05:09,109 WOMAN 2: [OVER PA] As we prepare for takeoff, 93 00:05:09,184 --> 00:05:10,925 we would like to remind you 94 00:05:11,061 --> 00:05:13,247 to please remain in your seats until the captain has turned off 95 00:05:13,271 --> 00:05:15,012 the "fasten seat belt" sign, 96 00:05:15,148 --> 00:05:18,391 indicating then that it is safe to move about the cabin. 97 00:05:18,527 --> 00:05:21,520 To get us on our way, make sure your seat is up, 98 00:05:21,655 --> 00:05:23,567 all electronic devices are put away, 99 00:05:23,698 --> 00:05:26,281 and your tray table is stowed. 100 00:05:26,409 --> 00:05:28,617 All exits on this airplane are clearly marked. 101 00:05:28,745 --> 00:05:30,202 Excuse me. 102 00:05:30,372 --> 00:05:33,956 Take a moment to locate the nearest one. Keep in mind, it may be behind you. 103 00:05:34,084 --> 00:05:35,746 If you have a carry-on, 104 00:05:35,877 --> 00:05:38,665 push it all the way under the seat in front of you. 105 00:05:48,223 --> 00:05:50,089 MAN: [ON RECORDING] Chapter One: 106 00:05:50,225 --> 00:05:54,139 "The Mystery of Northern Gold Star Flight 1015." 107 00:05:54,271 --> 00:05:55,682 The passengers were buckled up, 108 00:05:55,856 --> 00:05:58,599 and the safety demonstration had started. 109 00:05:58,733 --> 00:06:02,147 It was already raining outside at Dulles International Airport, 110 00:06:02,279 --> 00:06:05,863 and a large thunderstorm was brewing over the Atlantic. 111 00:06:06,032 --> 00:06:08,820 Little did the passengers of Flight 1015 know, 112 00:06:08,952 --> 00:06:10,784 in less than an hour, 113 00:06:10,912 --> 00:06:14,155 their plane would disappear from flight control radar, 114 00:06:14,332 --> 00:06:16,415 never to be heard from again. 115 00:06:16,543 --> 00:06:17,543 Oh, my God. 116 00:06:17,586 --> 00:06:19,168 [THUNDER CRASHES] 117 00:06:25,218 --> 00:06:28,711 I'm Rodman Edwards, the host of Enigmatique, 118 00:06:28,847 --> 00:06:31,715 and I'm going to lead you through the last moments of Flight 1015. 119 00:06:31,850 --> 00:06:35,264 Past is past. Past is past. 120 00:06:41,776 --> 00:06:45,269 NARRATOR: Settling in for a 13-hour transatlantic flight 121 00:06:45,447 --> 00:06:49,282 to a land rife with ancient mysteries is Justin Sanderson. 122 00:06:49,659 --> 00:06:53,824 Mr. Sanderson's occupation is to uncover unbiased truth. 123 00:06:53,955 --> 00:06:57,119 But with an hour left before certain doom, 124 00:06:57,292 --> 00:07:00,911 he must ask the right questions of the right people. 125 00:07:01,046 --> 00:07:06,258 Landing at the truth this time will require an unscheduled stopover... 126 00:07:06,384 --> 00:07:08,376 in The Twilight Zone. 127 00:07:11,806 --> 00:07:14,139 You're traveling through another dimension, 128 00:07:14,267 --> 00:07:18,011 a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind. 129 00:07:18,146 --> 00:07:21,105 It is the middle ground between light and shadow, 130 00:07:21,232 --> 00:07:23,815 between science and superstition. 131 00:07:23,944 --> 00:07:26,436 And it lies between the pit of one's fears 132 00:07:26,571 --> 00:07:29,109 and the summit of one's knowledge. 133 00:07:29,240 --> 00:07:32,483 You are now traveling through a dimension of imagination. 134 00:07:32,619 --> 00:07:36,738 You've just crossed over into The Twilight Zone. 135 00:07:41,586 --> 00:07:44,499 RODMAN: Chapter Two: "Ominous Signs." 136 00:07:44,631 --> 00:07:48,625 There are other aviation mysteries we've explored on this podcast: 137 00:07:48,760 --> 00:07:52,595 the crash of Transeast Airlines Flight 22 out of Miami Beach, 138 00:07:52,722 --> 00:07:56,386 or the anomaly of Global Airlines Flight 107 out of Buffalo. 139 00:07:56,518 --> 00:07:58,851 Yet what makes Flight 1015 unique 140 00:07:59,020 --> 00:08:02,730 is the number of unusual details surrounding its disappearance... 141 00:08:02,857 --> 00:08:05,144 - I'm Captain Donner. - ...starting with Captain Donner. 142 00:08:05,318 --> 00:08:07,526 CAPTAIN: We're pretty confident of a nice, smooth flight 143 00:08:07,654 --> 00:08:09,111 over the pond and on to Tel Aviv... 144 00:08:09,239 --> 00:08:11,947 Hey, did the pilot just say his name was Captain Donner? 145 00:08:12,701 --> 00:08:13,908 What? 146 00:08:14,035 --> 00:08:16,869 Just... Never mind. 147 00:08:19,541 --> 00:08:21,282 Sorry. 148 00:08:26,715 --> 00:08:30,004 I'm sorry, this is gonna sound very weird, uh... 149 00:08:30,218 --> 00:08:32,551 but do you think you could listen to this real quick? 150 00:08:32,679 --> 00:08:34,386 Those were on your ears, bro. 151 00:08:34,514 --> 00:08:36,881 Yeah. But... this podcast, 152 00:08:37,017 --> 00:08:40,761 uh, says that this flight... like this flight... 153 00:08:40,895 --> 00:08:43,603 is going to vanish into the ocean. 154 00:08:43,732 --> 00:08:47,442 Yeah. So, if you wouldn't mind just listening just for a sec... 155 00:08:47,569 --> 00:08:50,687 - Hey, yo, I don't want to get lice. - No, you... 156 00:08:53,241 --> 00:08:55,153 Jesus. 157 00:09:11,843 --> 00:09:14,426 RODMAN: Captain Donner noted to air traffic control 158 00:09:14,554 --> 00:09:18,173 the presence of a flock of cormorants near Flight 1015. 159 00:09:18,308 --> 00:09:21,722 In aviation circles, a dead bird is a harbinger 160 00:09:21,895 --> 00:09:23,978 of bad things to come. 161 00:09:24,606 --> 00:09:26,268 Shortly after takeoff, 162 00:09:26,399 --> 00:09:29,016 as the plane maneuvered around a thunderstorm, 163 00:09:29,152 --> 00:09:33,396 the flight crew reported that a bird struck the engine at 10:21 p.m. 164 00:09:48,129 --> 00:09:49,870 [PANTING] 165 00:09:50,006 --> 00:09:52,794 The past is past. The past is past. 166 00:09:52,967 --> 00:09:54,378 The past... 167 00:09:54,511 --> 00:09:55,922 is past. 168 00:09:56,638 --> 00:09:58,550 The past... 169 00:09:58,681 --> 00:10:00,513 is past. 170 00:10:01,351 --> 00:10:02,967 Past... 171 00:10:03,978 --> 00:10:05,594 ...is past. 172 00:10:16,866 --> 00:10:17,902 [CLEARS THROAT] 173 00:10:21,079 --> 00:10:22,490 [CHIMES] 174 00:10:22,997 --> 00:10:24,113 Hi. 175 00:10:24,290 --> 00:10:25,451 One sec. 176 00:10:25,583 --> 00:10:26,994 No, no. Please. 177 00:10:27,168 --> 00:10:28,625 Please. 178 00:10:29,879 --> 00:10:32,041 [CHIMES REPEATEDLY] 179 00:10:38,221 --> 00:10:40,133 - Would you? - I got you, all right. 180 00:10:42,892 --> 00:10:44,599 Okay, uh... 181 00:10:45,478 --> 00:10:46,514 Yep. 182 00:10:46,646 --> 00:10:48,353 Hello. Sorry to bother you. 183 00:10:48,481 --> 00:10:49,517 But... 184 00:10:50,733 --> 00:10:52,895 [LAUGHS] Um... 185 00:10:53,027 --> 00:10:54,893 Is that a bird out there? 186 00:10:55,029 --> 00:10:57,863 Uh, outside, before, in the... the engine? 187 00:10:58,032 --> 00:11:01,446 Just... Just now, like... Um, did we hit a bird? 188 00:11:02,078 --> 00:11:03,319 Um... 189 00:11:04,080 --> 00:11:05,946 - I wouldn't know. - Okay. 190 00:11:06,082 --> 00:11:08,282 Do you think there's a way we could maybe ask the pilot? 191 00:11:08,376 --> 00:11:10,789 Um... I'd hate to trouble him right now. 192 00:11:10,920 --> 00:11:12,502 Here's the thing, is that... 193 00:11:12,672 --> 00:11:16,256 We're still flying and at an altitude where there are no more birds. 194 00:11:16,426 --> 00:11:18,258 No more birds? Okay. 195 00:11:18,386 --> 00:11:20,548 - How do you know there's no birds? - Sir? 196 00:11:20,722 --> 00:11:21,722 - Sir? - I mean... 197 00:11:21,806 --> 00:11:23,742 - What? What? - Sir, I need you to lower your tone. 198 00:11:23,766 --> 00:11:25,703 - I'm not... - We'll be starting in-flight service 199 00:11:25,727 --> 00:11:27,538 in a minute, so if you'd like anything further, 200 00:11:27,562 --> 00:11:29,144 please let me know. 201 00:11:31,274 --> 00:11:33,732 Okay, I'll just... I'll, um... I'll shut up. I'm sorry. 202 00:11:33,902 --> 00:11:37,066 [LAUGHS] I'm sorry. Thank you. 203 00:11:45,914 --> 00:11:47,496 JOE: It was. 204 00:11:49,125 --> 00:11:50,582 A bird. 205 00:11:51,044 --> 00:11:53,127 Real headache coming out of Dulles. 206 00:11:53,254 --> 00:11:54,836 I used to pilot for Northern Gold Star. 207 00:11:54,964 --> 00:11:57,377 They let us catch rides on flights if there's room. 208 00:11:57,508 --> 00:11:59,340 Yeah, this is a good flight crew. 209 00:11:59,469 --> 00:12:02,257 Donner, the pilot. Nick and Tammy. I worked with them a lot. 210 00:12:02,430 --> 00:12:04,296 But the thing is, they don't know. 211 00:12:04,432 --> 00:12:06,232 They'll never tell you what's really going on. 212 00:12:06,309 --> 00:12:09,143 I don't fly anymore. One too many mistakes I can't take back. 213 00:12:12,148 --> 00:12:14,014 Yeah, that was a birdie. 214 00:12:14,150 --> 00:12:15,937 Yeah. 215 00:12:16,486 --> 00:12:18,478 [THUNDER RUMBLES] 216 00:12:39,759 --> 00:12:43,093 RODMAN: So what do we really know about Flight 1015? 217 00:12:43,596 --> 00:12:45,883 We know that the last words spoken by the pilot 218 00:12:46,015 --> 00:12:50,009 to air traffic control were, "Good night, New York." 219 00:12:50,520 --> 00:12:54,480 We also know that it disappeared at 11:15 p.m. 220 00:12:54,649 --> 00:12:56,515 I'm running out of time. 221 00:12:56,651 --> 00:13:00,986 What could have happened to cause the flight to vanish without a trace? 222 00:13:02,323 --> 00:13:04,051 MAN: [OVER SPEAKER] Folks, this is the flight deck again 223 00:13:04,075 --> 00:13:06,488 just to let everyone know the storm system up ahead's 224 00:13:06,661 --> 00:13:08,994 developing a little bit faster than we anticipated. 225 00:13:09,122 --> 00:13:11,205 We'll be maneuvering around it as best we can, 226 00:13:11,332 --> 00:13:13,369 but we do expect to hit some rough patches. 227 00:13:13,501 --> 00:13:15,242 Shouldn't be anything to worry about, 228 00:13:15,378 --> 00:13:17,961 but we ask you to all remain in your seats if you can. 229 00:13:18,131 --> 00:13:19,497 Thank you. 230 00:13:27,515 --> 00:13:31,759 RODMAN: Chapter Three: "Every Detail Counts." 231 00:13:32,353 --> 00:13:35,596 With a tragedy as enormous as Flight 1015, 232 00:13:35,773 --> 00:13:38,641 it's devastating to think of the cost. 233 00:13:38,776 --> 00:13:44,613 117 lives lost when the pilot signed off from air traffic control 234 00:13:44,741 --> 00:13:48,655 and the flight disappeared from radar over the North Atlantic. 235 00:13:48,786 --> 00:13:52,496 Without any forensic evidence, we have to start looking for patterns, 236 00:13:52,623 --> 00:13:54,740 looking for clues, 237 00:13:54,876 --> 00:13:58,415 small signs that could tell us the bigger problem. 238 00:13:59,547 --> 00:14:03,336 Most famous aviation mysteries come from small beginnings: 239 00:14:03,509 --> 00:14:07,423 a mechanical failure, or fire in one of the cabins, 240 00:14:07,555 --> 00:14:11,094 leading the crew to panic and to bring the plane down. 241 00:14:12,226 --> 00:14:14,684 The passengers would've looked to the flight attendants 242 00:14:14,812 --> 00:14:18,522 and known immediately that something was wrong. 243 00:14:18,649 --> 00:14:20,811 We know that the cockpit of this particular aircraft 244 00:14:20,943 --> 00:14:22,400 was equipped with cameras 245 00:14:22,570 --> 00:14:25,688 that allowed the passengers to watch the flight crew 246 00:14:25,823 --> 00:14:27,906 through multiple monitors. 247 00:14:28,076 --> 00:14:30,409 If the pilot were doing something unusual, 248 00:14:30,536 --> 00:14:34,371 it's likely that the whole cabin would have noticed and reacted. 249 00:14:34,916 --> 00:14:37,909 What seems more likely is the idea that it was something 250 00:14:38,086 --> 00:14:40,328 truly unexpected and unique. 251 00:14:40,463 --> 00:14:43,501 As the plane flew close to a thunderstorm, 252 00:14:43,633 --> 00:14:45,545 the pilot would need to calmly communicate 253 00:14:45,718 --> 00:14:49,758 with his fellow crew and keep the flight under control. 254 00:14:49,889 --> 00:14:51,471 Was there something on board 255 00:14:51,599 --> 00:14:54,342 that could've disrupted the plane's communications? 256 00:14:54,519 --> 00:14:56,886 - [SPORTSCAST PLAYING] - [QUIET CHATTER] 257 00:15:01,692 --> 00:15:03,274 JUSTIN: Hi. 258 00:15:03,403 --> 00:15:05,986 Hello. Uh, I'm Justin. 259 00:15:06,114 --> 00:15:08,902 I'm sorry, I... I know this isn't really my business, 260 00:15:09,033 --> 00:15:11,525 but I just think you may need to turn that off. 261 00:15:13,121 --> 00:15:14,612 Thank you for your input. 262 00:15:14,747 --> 00:15:17,239 But, uh, you know we are Sikh, right? 263 00:15:17,375 --> 00:15:19,207 Yeah. Absolutely. 264 00:15:19,335 --> 00:15:21,998 Yeah, and equal to us all. So... 265 00:15:23,131 --> 00:15:25,248 Okay, Justin. 266 00:15:27,009 --> 00:15:28,341 Then leave us all alone. 267 00:15:28,469 --> 00:15:31,177 Okay, I just... I feel like you do need to turn that off, though. 268 00:15:31,305 --> 00:15:34,844 - It's on airplane mode. It's on Wi-Fi. - Are you gonna turn it off or, like...? 269 00:15:34,976 --> 00:15:35,976 - Mr. Sanderson? - Yes? 270 00:15:36,060 --> 00:15:37,371 I'm gonna need you to go back to your seat, please. 271 00:15:37,395 --> 00:15:39,995 But these guys, they're not turning it off, so I kind of figure... 272 00:15:40,064 --> 00:15:42,864 I understand that you're concerned. I need you to go back to your seat. 273 00:15:45,278 --> 00:15:46,278 Now. 274 00:15:46,279 --> 00:15:47,315 Okay. 275 00:15:48,406 --> 00:15:49,817 What is he, the cricket police? 276 00:15:49,949 --> 00:15:51,815 - Crazy. - What's his problem? 277 00:15:51,951 --> 00:15:53,567 WOMAN: Guy needs to sit down. 278 00:15:56,706 --> 00:15:58,868 [FASTENS SEAT BELT] 279 00:16:02,628 --> 00:16:05,336 RODMAN: Without any forensic evidence to analyze, 280 00:16:05,465 --> 00:16:09,960 we have to consider other records left behind by Flight 1015. 281 00:16:10,094 --> 00:16:12,711 This includes the passenger manifest. 282 00:16:12,847 --> 00:16:14,713 And one infamous individual 283 00:16:14,849 --> 00:16:18,308 at the front of the plane immediately stands out: 284 00:16:18,478 --> 00:16:21,346 Russian citizen Igor Orlov. 285 00:16:22,482 --> 00:16:24,724 Igor was in witness protection 286 00:16:24,859 --> 00:16:27,772 and was taking Flight 1015 to Tel Aviv 287 00:16:27,904 --> 00:16:31,068 in order to testify against the Russian mafia. 288 00:16:31,741 --> 00:16:34,609 We know the Russian mob would do anything in their power 289 00:16:34,744 --> 00:16:37,327 to prevent Orlov from testifying. 290 00:16:37,455 --> 00:16:40,573 Is it possible that they targeted Flight 1015 291 00:16:40,708 --> 00:16:42,574 in order to kill him? 292 00:16:44,712 --> 00:16:47,705 Another detail might fill in the picture. 293 00:16:47,882 --> 00:16:52,126 Also listed on the passenger manifest is a US air marshal. 294 00:16:52,553 --> 00:16:56,297 Was he on board the flight in order to protect Igor Orlov? 295 00:16:56,474 --> 00:17:00,639 Would he be able to tell us of any threats to the aircraft? 296 00:17:04,398 --> 00:17:05,809 Excuse me. 297 00:17:05,942 --> 00:17:07,604 - Hi. - I am very sorry 298 00:17:07,735 --> 00:17:10,102 about everything from before, but, um... 299 00:17:12,406 --> 00:17:14,944 ...I really need to talk to the air marshal. 300 00:17:15,451 --> 00:17:17,408 I don't know that there's one aboard this flight. 301 00:17:17,578 --> 00:17:18,819 Uh, there is. 302 00:17:18,955 --> 00:17:20,867 - Okay? - You know that? 303 00:17:21,040 --> 00:17:23,282 - Yeah. I do. - Okay. 304 00:17:23,417 --> 00:17:25,249 Mr. Sanderson, I don't know 305 00:17:25,419 --> 00:17:27,285 that there's an air marshal aboard this flight. 306 00:17:27,421 --> 00:17:29,733 They don't notify the captain of the presence of an air marshal. 307 00:17:29,757 --> 00:17:32,124 They definitely don't tell the flight attendants. 308 00:17:32,927 --> 00:17:35,465 Okay, yeah. No, I get it. I get it. 309 00:17:35,596 --> 00:17:36,632 You get it? 310 00:17:36,764 --> 00:17:38,756 I get it. Thank you. 311 00:17:38,891 --> 00:17:40,851 Could you do me a huge favor and just... just sit? 312 00:17:40,893 --> 00:17:43,852 Yeah. Yeah. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Thank you. 313 00:17:44,021 --> 00:17:45,432 Okay. 314 00:17:50,736 --> 00:17:53,399 Hi. 315 00:17:54,824 --> 00:17:56,781 [LAUGHING] Mr. Popular. 316 00:17:57,785 --> 00:18:00,823 - Look, I know you said you're a pilot. - Mm-hmm. 317 00:18:00,955 --> 00:18:04,699 - But you're an air marshal, aren't you? - Told you, I'm a pilot. 318 00:18:04,834 --> 00:18:06,826 [THUNDER RUMBLES] 319 00:18:08,629 --> 00:18:11,337 Listen, I'm an investigative reporter, okay? 320 00:18:11,465 --> 00:18:14,003 And I can be pretty sure that an air marshal 321 00:18:14,135 --> 00:18:17,344 is gonna look a lot like a marshal in the air. 322 00:18:18,055 --> 00:18:21,548 No. I'm not an air marshal. What do you want me to tell you? 323 00:18:21,684 --> 00:18:23,095 - I don't know. - Uh, I'm... 324 00:18:23,269 --> 00:18:25,807 sorry to disappoint you, brother. I'm just a pilot. 325 00:18:25,938 --> 00:18:29,807 But I know air marshals, and I know their job, Justin, 326 00:18:29,942 --> 00:18:32,184 is to think like a terrorist. 327 00:18:32,486 --> 00:18:35,604 Now, the best way to spot deceptive behavior... 328 00:18:37,575 --> 00:18:39,612 Act like a deceptive person. 329 00:19:38,344 --> 00:19:40,552 MAN: What's he doing? 330 00:19:48,062 --> 00:19:50,395 - [SPEAKS RUSSIAN] - I apologize, Mr. Orlov. 331 00:19:50,564 --> 00:19:53,147 - My name is not Orlov. - Okay, of course not, of course not. 332 00:19:53,693 --> 00:19:55,434 Get the fuck out of here! 333 00:19:55,569 --> 00:19:57,686 Okay, okay. Listen, I know you have many enemies 334 00:19:57,905 --> 00:19:59,646 who will go to great lengths to destroy you. 335 00:19:59,782 --> 00:20:01,523 You with Spartak Moscow? 336 00:20:01,659 --> 00:20:04,072 Spartak. That is a Saint Petersburg crime family? 337 00:20:04,245 --> 00:20:06,828 Russian Premier League. We play for Grozny. 338 00:20:06,956 --> 00:20:09,414 We're playing a friendly game against Spartak in Tel Aviv. 339 00:20:09,583 --> 00:20:11,791 - Yeah, fuck Moscow. - Fuck Moscow, that's right. Yeah. 340 00:20:11,919 --> 00:20:13,730 Sir, I'm gonna need you to sit down and back away, please. 341 00:20:13,754 --> 00:20:15,211 Mr. Sanderson, are you kidding me? 342 00:20:15,339 --> 00:20:17,234 This Russian soccer league thing is total bullshit. 343 00:20:17,258 --> 00:20:18,610 What are you talking about? Mr. Sanderson... 344 00:20:18,634 --> 00:20:20,737 - One of them is Igor Orlov, all right? - Listen. Listen to me. 345 00:20:20,761 --> 00:20:22,114 I've alerted the captain to your behavior. 346 00:20:22,138 --> 00:20:24,471 - You need to check their IDs. - Don't worry about it. 347 00:20:24,598 --> 00:20:26,590 The Russian mafia wants to kill Igor Orlov. 348 00:20:26,767 --> 00:20:28,429 Okay? They want... 349 00:20:28,561 --> 00:20:30,974 [SHOUTS IN RUSSIAN] 350 00:20:31,105 --> 00:20:32,767 [CLAMORING] 351 00:20:32,940 --> 00:20:35,398 - MAN: Calm down. - Jesus Christ. 352 00:20:35,526 --> 00:20:38,234 Sit down, Mr. Orlov. Sit down! Everybody. 353 00:20:38,362 --> 00:20:39,898 Calm down. 354 00:20:40,030 --> 00:20:42,522 Sit down, please. Sit down. 355 00:20:43,576 --> 00:20:45,989 - Thank you. - Yes, sir. Excuse me. 356 00:20:46,120 --> 00:20:47,281 Right here. 357 00:20:49,123 --> 00:20:51,206 You are threatening the safety of these passengers. 358 00:20:51,333 --> 00:20:55,077 - I'm threatening the safety? - Now, listen. I'm warning you. 359 00:20:55,254 --> 00:20:57,041 Return to your seat. 360 00:20:57,173 --> 00:21:01,087 Okay. I... If I were you, I would check those guys' IDs, 361 00:21:01,260 --> 00:21:04,378 I would check their bags, okay? All right, I... 362 00:21:11,061 --> 00:21:12,723 Okay. 363 00:21:15,858 --> 00:21:18,601 Hi, folks. Sorry for the disturbance. 364 00:21:18,736 --> 00:21:21,069 Sit back and enjoy yourselves, okay? 365 00:21:21,822 --> 00:21:23,563 Thank you. 366 00:21:32,666 --> 00:21:36,000 RODMAN: The last person of interest is an investigative reporter 367 00:21:36,170 --> 00:21:39,163 directly linked to the events of the flight: 368 00:21:39,298 --> 00:21:41,290 Justin Sanderson. 369 00:21:46,889 --> 00:21:50,132 If you've only heard one thing about Flight 1015, 370 00:21:50,267 --> 00:21:52,509 it's probably the passenger Justin Sanderson. 371 00:21:52,686 --> 00:21:54,848 FLIGHT ASSISTANT: [OVER PA] Sir, return to your seat. 372 00:21:54,980 --> 00:21:56,666 RODMAN: Video of the investigative journalist 373 00:21:56,690 --> 00:21:59,182 causing a disturbance on that flight 374 00:21:59,318 --> 00:22:02,937 was uploaded online moments before the plane disappeared. 375 00:22:03,072 --> 00:22:04,483 Here's a clip. 376 00:22:04,657 --> 00:22:06,193 JUSTIN: Check their IDs right now. 377 00:22:06,325 --> 00:22:08,442 The Russian mafia wants to kill Igor Orlov. 378 00:22:08,577 --> 00:22:10,489 - WOMAN: Pardon me? - Okay? They want to... 379 00:22:10,621 --> 00:22:13,705 - [ORLOV SPEAKS RUSSIAN] - WOMAN: Sir, sit down. Sir... 380 00:22:13,874 --> 00:22:16,036 Sir, I'm gonna need you to take your seat, please. 381 00:22:16,168 --> 00:22:18,160 We can't say for certain if this relates 382 00:22:18,295 --> 00:22:21,709 to the pilot's ominous send-off, "Good night, New York." 383 00:22:21,882 --> 00:22:23,735 - I'm gonna need you to sit down. - Can't do that. 384 00:22:23,759 --> 00:22:26,718 - Now. Let's go. Back. - Okay. All right. 385 00:22:26,887 --> 00:22:30,005 Mr. Sanderson, I think you're having a psychotic break. 386 00:22:30,140 --> 00:22:31,347 Just wait a second. 387 00:22:31,517 --> 00:22:35,477 Correct me if I'm wrong, but in about 14 minutes, 388 00:22:35,604 --> 00:22:38,813 you will say the words, "Good night, New York." 389 00:22:39,400 --> 00:22:42,268 Don't do it. Do not say it. 390 00:22:46,240 --> 00:22:47,776 Why? 391 00:22:47,908 --> 00:22:51,527 Because those are the last words anyone will ever hear from this plane. 392 00:22:51,704 --> 00:22:54,367 - If you threaten my plane one more time... - Listen to me. 393 00:22:54,498 --> 00:22:56,205 ...I swear to God... 394 00:22:58,961 --> 00:23:01,169 Mr. Sanderson, I'm placing you under arrest. 395 00:23:01,297 --> 00:23:02,788 You're the air marshal? 396 00:23:02,923 --> 00:23:05,684 You're being restrained because of your threats against this aircraft. 397 00:23:34,371 --> 00:23:36,613 MARSHAL: I heard it. I don't know what you're up to, 398 00:23:36,790 --> 00:23:38,782 but podcasts don't predict the future. 399 00:23:40,044 --> 00:23:41,751 Sorry, Justin. 400 00:23:42,463 --> 00:23:44,455 We're not gonna disappear. 401 00:23:47,343 --> 00:23:51,257 But we'll have people waiting for you when we land that can help you. 402 00:23:52,306 --> 00:23:53,672 Look... 403 00:23:57,311 --> 00:23:59,769 I've had a mental breakdown before. Okay? 404 00:23:59,897 --> 00:24:03,766 I know what it feels like, I know what it is, and this isn't it. 405 00:24:03,901 --> 00:24:05,984 This feels different, okay? 406 00:24:06,111 --> 00:24:08,728 I am not caught up in the past here. 407 00:24:08,864 --> 00:24:13,154 This is now, this is real, and I have evidence to prove 408 00:24:13,327 --> 00:24:15,740 that I know what's going on here. 409 00:24:17,331 --> 00:24:20,870 Justin, being wrong is an easier scenario 410 00:24:21,001 --> 00:24:24,210 for you to wrap your head around because it's reality, 411 00:24:25,005 --> 00:24:27,418 and it's one you can recover from. 412 00:24:30,511 --> 00:24:33,254 - I'm sorry, we have a situation. - Okay. 413 00:24:39,728 --> 00:24:42,015 Captain, what's the situation? 414 00:24:47,861 --> 00:24:50,274 [INDISTINCT] 415 00:24:56,954 --> 00:25:01,039 RODMAN: The mystery of Flight 1015 endures in our imagination 416 00:25:01,208 --> 00:25:04,372 because we have so many pieces of the puzzle, 417 00:25:04,503 --> 00:25:07,041 yet are left with no definite answer. 418 00:25:07,631 --> 00:25:12,217 With minutes left until it would vanish from radar at 11:15 p.m., 419 00:25:12,344 --> 00:25:14,631 it seems the passengers and crew 420 00:25:14,763 --> 00:25:18,006 were completely unaware of what would happen next. 421 00:25:18,183 --> 00:25:22,928 The plane was threading a needle, perilously close to a thunderstorm, 422 00:25:23,063 --> 00:25:27,979 carrying a unique set of passengers for an unknown destination. 423 00:25:28,110 --> 00:25:31,353 There's really only one question left. 424 00:25:31,530 --> 00:25:34,944 Could anything have been done to prevent the tragedy? 425 00:25:37,036 --> 00:25:38,402 Hey, buddy. 426 00:25:39,204 --> 00:25:40,445 Hey. 427 00:25:40,956 --> 00:25:42,447 I believe you. 428 00:25:45,044 --> 00:25:46,125 [INDISTINCT] 429 00:25:47,838 --> 00:25:49,579 I believe the shit you're saying. 430 00:25:49,757 --> 00:25:52,465 You do? Why? 431 00:25:52,593 --> 00:25:55,552 Because I'm a pilot. I live in the sky. 432 00:25:55,679 --> 00:25:58,717 And right now we're up 30,000 feet where no human was ever meant to be, 433 00:25:58,849 --> 00:26:01,387 but we don't think about that anymore, do we? 434 00:26:01,518 --> 00:26:02,518 No. 435 00:26:02,561 --> 00:26:05,224 Just the fact that we're in this plane means anything's possible. 436 00:26:05,355 --> 00:26:06,471 That's right. 437 00:26:07,483 --> 00:26:09,395 That's right. Thank you. 438 00:26:09,568 --> 00:26:12,060 Thanks, Joe. Thanks for... Thanks for believing me. 439 00:26:12,196 --> 00:26:14,984 Look, Justin, magic exists where we're not supposed to be. 440 00:26:15,115 --> 00:26:18,028 Yes. I know I'm right. I can feel it. 441 00:26:18,202 --> 00:26:19,534 MARSHAL: Okay, thank you. 442 00:26:19,661 --> 00:26:21,618 [INDISTINCT] 443 00:26:21,789 --> 00:26:23,200 Wait a second. 444 00:26:25,084 --> 00:26:26,245 Joe? 445 00:26:26,919 --> 00:26:28,080 Yeah? 446 00:26:29,338 --> 00:26:31,000 You're a pilot. 447 00:26:31,131 --> 00:26:32,463 Yeah. 448 00:26:32,633 --> 00:26:34,716 I mean, you've flown a plane like this before. 449 00:26:34,843 --> 00:26:36,709 Northern Gold Star 765. 450 00:26:36,887 --> 00:26:38,219 [THUNDER RUMBLES] 451 00:26:39,890 --> 00:26:41,882 You can land this plane safely. 452 00:26:42,017 --> 00:26:45,636 You can turn us around and land us in Canada safely, 453 00:26:45,813 --> 00:26:48,396 - before we vanish. - I... I can't get in there. 454 00:26:48,524 --> 00:26:51,484 Before takeoff, every flight crew is issued an override code to that keypad 455 00:26:51,652 --> 00:26:53,814 to get in the flight deck. I don't know that code. 456 00:27:02,162 --> 00:27:03,573 JUSTIN: I know it. 457 00:27:04,832 --> 00:27:06,619 It's 1015. 458 00:27:06,792 --> 00:27:08,658 Did your podcast tell you that, too? 459 00:27:10,504 --> 00:27:13,747 Yes. That's the answer. 460 00:27:15,092 --> 00:27:17,300 When I get in there, I'm gonna drop the cabin pressure 461 00:27:17,427 --> 00:27:19,614 and raise the temperature. I'm gonna put everyone to sleep. 462 00:27:19,638 --> 00:27:21,630 We don't want a panic situation on our hands. 463 00:27:21,765 --> 00:27:23,506 Well, won't the oxygen masks drop down? 464 00:27:23,642 --> 00:27:25,679 Yeah, sure, but I can handle that from in there. 465 00:27:25,811 --> 00:27:28,303 It's perfect. They'll be putting their masks on, 466 00:27:28,438 --> 00:27:30,430 they won't realize there's no oxygen flowing. 467 00:27:30,566 --> 00:27:32,228 They'll be fast asleep. 468 00:27:43,704 --> 00:27:46,162 You're gonna need this. Hide it. 469 00:27:46,290 --> 00:27:50,204 When the coast is clear, I'll give you a signal. You'll come and join me. 470 00:27:50,377 --> 00:27:52,494 Listen to me. You're doing a good thing. 471 00:27:52,629 --> 00:27:55,417 You are saving these souls. 472 00:27:55,549 --> 00:27:57,916 [THUNDER CRASHES] 473 00:28:25,495 --> 00:28:27,487 [PASSENGERS MURMURING] 474 00:28:28,373 --> 00:28:30,786 [PANICKED CHATTER, GASPING] 475 00:28:36,256 --> 00:28:39,249 - WOMAN: Anybody know? - MAN: Who is this guy? 476 00:28:41,178 --> 00:28:42,885 JOE: [OVER PA] Greetings, passengers. 477 00:28:43,013 --> 00:28:44,299 Oh, my God! 478 00:28:44,473 --> 00:28:46,715 A little welcome from the flight deck. 479 00:28:46,850 --> 00:28:49,467 This is your new pilot, Captain Beaumont. 480 00:28:51,396 --> 00:28:53,308 The, uh, former flight crew... 481 00:28:53,440 --> 00:28:55,477 What the fuck? 482 00:28:55,609 --> 00:28:57,817 Well, they've been incapacitated. 483 00:28:58,612 --> 00:29:00,353 So allow me... 484 00:29:00,489 --> 00:29:03,232 Allow me to wish you all the very best for the remainder 485 00:29:03,408 --> 00:29:05,248 - of Northern Gold Star Flight 1015. - Now, go. 486 00:29:05,327 --> 00:29:08,286 Everybody, I need you to sit down. Sit down and stay calm. 487 00:29:08,455 --> 00:29:09,866 All right? Please, stay calm. 488 00:29:09,998 --> 00:29:11,768 Coming through, coming through, coming through! 489 00:29:11,792 --> 00:29:13,784 [CLAMORING] 490 00:29:21,969 --> 00:29:24,256 Time for everyone... 491 00:29:26,765 --> 00:29:28,757 ...to relax. 492 00:29:57,129 --> 00:29:59,121 [ALARM BEEPS] 493 00:30:02,509 --> 00:30:06,719 JOE: [OVER PA] I want to thank you, Justin. You taught me something. 494 00:30:06,847 --> 00:30:11,012 The past is the past. And I can't get that back. 495 00:30:11,184 --> 00:30:13,050 I'll never be the man I once was, 496 00:30:13,186 --> 00:30:16,020 but you've given me the clarity of awareness 497 00:30:16,189 --> 00:30:18,727 and the opportunity to find peace 498 00:30:18,859 --> 00:30:22,068 and escape the past the only way possible. 499 00:30:24,406 --> 00:30:26,068 And you will, too. 500 00:30:26,199 --> 00:30:27,781 WOMAN: [OVER SPEAKER] NGS 1015, 501 00:30:27,909 --> 00:30:31,528 this is Gander Oceanic Control. You are clear for transfer. 502 00:30:31,705 --> 00:30:33,367 Copy that. 503 00:30:36,543 --> 00:30:38,079 Good night, New York. 504 00:30:38,211 --> 00:30:40,624 ♪ Fly me to the moon 505 00:30:40,797 --> 00:30:43,084 ♪ Let me play among the stars 506 00:30:43,216 --> 00:30:46,129 Oh, shit. He's the pilot. 507 00:30:46,261 --> 00:30:53,261 ♪ Let me see what spring is like on Jupiter and Mars 508 00:30:54,019 --> 00:30:56,011 ♪ In other words 509 00:30:56,980 --> 00:31:00,599 ♪ Hold my hand 510 00:31:02,235 --> 00:31:04,227 ♪ In other words 511 00:31:05,238 --> 00:31:07,821 ♪ Baby, kiss me 512 00:31:10,285 --> 00:31:12,902 ♪ Fill my heart with song 513 00:31:13,080 --> 00:31:17,495 ♪ And let me sing forevermore 514 00:31:18,418 --> 00:31:21,752 ♪ You are all I long for... 515 00:31:57,749 --> 00:31:59,741 [GRUNTING] 516 00:32:00,127 --> 00:32:02,710 [PANTING] 517 00:32:06,216 --> 00:32:08,128 I'm here. 518 00:32:14,433 --> 00:32:15,924 I was right. 519 00:32:32,325 --> 00:32:34,362 RODMAN: "The Mystery of Flight 1015, 520 00:32:34,494 --> 00:32:37,783 Part Two: The End of Civility." 521 00:32:37,956 --> 00:32:40,289 The first installment in this bizarre story 522 00:32:40,417 --> 00:32:42,909 was our most popular podcast to date. 523 00:32:43,044 --> 00:32:44,831 And when we last left you, 524 00:32:45,005 --> 00:32:48,089 we thought we had told the tale of an unexplained mystery 525 00:32:48,216 --> 00:32:51,459 so bizarre it would be left to historians to unravel. 526 00:32:51,595 --> 00:32:55,179 Rescuers spent months after the plane's disappearance 527 00:32:55,348 --> 00:32:59,934 looking for debris, hoping to find signs of survivors. 528 00:33:00,061 --> 00:33:03,975 The search would go on for months, but to no avail. 529 00:33:04,524 --> 00:33:09,269 Until a cargo ship happened upon a near-barren atoll. 530 00:33:09,404 --> 00:33:11,145 And incredibly, 531 00:33:11,323 --> 00:33:15,033 every passenger from Flight 1015 had survived, 532 00:33:15,160 --> 00:33:16,446 except one. 533 00:33:16,578 --> 00:33:20,447 None of the survivors could explain it, but Justin Sanderson was missing, 534 00:33:20,582 --> 00:33:24,292 his whereabouts, still to this day, unknown. 535 00:33:32,385 --> 00:33:34,172 Hey, buddy. 536 00:33:34,346 --> 00:33:35,928 Hey. 537 00:33:36,056 --> 00:33:38,093 Hey, where you going? 538 00:33:41,895 --> 00:33:44,933 [ANGRY MURMURING] 539 00:33:47,984 --> 00:33:49,065 MAN: That's him. 540 00:33:49,194 --> 00:33:50,480 MAN 2: That's him? Is that him? 541 00:33:50,612 --> 00:33:52,353 Hey, I tried to save us. 542 00:33:52,531 --> 00:33:54,773 [ANGRY MURMURING] 543 00:33:58,620 --> 00:34:00,361 MARSHAL: Justin, you did this. 544 00:34:01,665 --> 00:34:03,281 MAN: How could you do this? 545 00:34:03,416 --> 00:34:05,908 What did you people do, huh?! Nothing! 546 00:34:07,921 --> 00:34:10,288 What did you do?! Get away from me! 547 00:34:10,882 --> 00:34:11,882 Get away! 548 00:34:11,925 --> 00:34:14,087 - How could you do this, asshole?! - No! No! 549 00:34:14,261 --> 00:34:16,878 [SHOUTING] 550 00:34:21,142 --> 00:34:23,976 In his final moments, Justin Sanderson made the case 551 00:34:24,104 --> 00:34:26,847 that he did everything he could to avert disaster. 552 00:34:26,982 --> 00:34:29,599 But in the end, he was an investigative reporter 553 00:34:29,776 --> 00:34:32,018 unwilling to investigate himself, 554 00:34:32,153 --> 00:34:34,065 until it was too late. 555 00:34:34,239 --> 00:34:36,276 Justin discovered that the flight path to hell 556 00:34:36,408 --> 00:34:38,491 is paved with good intentions, 557 00:34:38,618 --> 00:34:40,735 and it passes directly... 558 00:34:42,038 --> 00:34:44,121 ...through The Twilight Zone.