The film begins with titles appearing on a black background to introduce the production team. The last title, "flight 93", indicates the film will focus on this event and provides context without distracting visuals. Establishing shots of an airport and plane introduce the setting as Newark Airport on September 11th, signaling the film will depict that day's airplane crashes. Subsequent titles reveal characters' names in shots of the actors, identifying main characters like Jeffrey Nordling who plays Tom. Credits for lesser roles fade over unimportant scenery.