Hughes dies of kidney failure during a flight from Acapulco, Mexico, to Houston, Texas. His emaciated and unkempt appearance shocks those who see him, highlighting the extent of his physical decline.

Hughes' death triggers a complex and protracted legal battle over his vast estate, with numerous claimants coming forward to assert their rights. Many forged wills are presented.

The Hughes estate is finally settled, with the bulk of his fortune going to the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. The settlement resolves the numerous legal claims and establishes the institute as a major force in medical research.

Hughes remains a legendary and enigmatic figure, remembered for his aviation achievements, film productions, business ventures, and eccentric lifestyle. His life continues to be the subject of books, films, and documentaries, solidifying his place in popular culture.