The airplane, as a mode of transportation, symbolizes a dreamer’s journey. Depending upon other contextual clues, this could be an actual waking life physical journey, a spiritual journey or the general direction and progress of the dreamer’s life or project.

Airplane crash. The dreamer fears something is not going well in his waking life. See Bellaonline Dream site’s “Dream Symbol Airplane Crash.”
Stunt plane performing with skill and agility Dreamer is handling certain risky tasks with aplomb in a showy or impressive manner.
Failed engine. Dreamer is lacking energy or health.
Broken wing. Something is crippling the dreamer’s ability to move forward. The dreamer has sustained some damage (emotional, physical, financial).
Looping airplane. Dreamer’s waking life is experiencing precarious, emotional highs and lows.
Airplane lost radar equipment. Dreamer feels he has no guidance or direction in life.
In the clouds. Dreamer’s goals may be too lofty and idealistic.
Boarding a plane. Dreamer is preparing for a new adventure or journey. Although it is to be stressed that this scenario is not a death dream, as in the dreamer is embarking on the trip to the other side, it is interesting to note that it is a common dream among the elderly who reportedly do pass on soon after.

Details to consider

Type and size of plane. A small bi-plane (private or individual) carries few occupants while a jet can be packed with many people (general population). A stunt plane is for risky maneuvers and for performance.
Color. Look up the individual color to understand its significance. If there is a logo on the plane, consider the message that the company logo conveys.
Condition. Is the plane in good working order? If not, what exactly is wrong with it? Insufficient fuel? A broken wing? Choking engine?
Location. Do you see the airplane in mid-air or is it stuck on the tarmac? Is it taking off? Over the open ocean?
Flight path. How is the plane flying? Is it smooth or rocky?
Destination. Does the plane reach its destination or does it plummet to a fiery crash? Does it end up in a foreign land?

Other contextual dream symbols

Consider other dream symbols and look up their meanings, too: Weather conditions, obstacles, activities while on plane. Is there a pilot, co-pilot or other travelers? Does any particular occupant stand out? Is the safety equipment missing? Are you looking out the window? Look up each individual image for its dream symbol meaning.