Growing up in poverty, Gilbert Galvan Jr. dreamed of a stable life, family and ocean-side home. After a youth in juvenile facilities, he's jailed for check fraud. He escapes to Canada as Robert Whiteman and becomes the "Flying Bandit" by robbing banks posing as different professionals. With the help of Tommy Kay, he plans to upgrade to jewelry stores. Detective John Snydes is tracking him down, leading to a cross-country pursuit in the 80's with both men determined to outsmart each other.