What historical event would have been considered "jumping the shark" had it happened on a TV show?

The Pilot that lost the F-35. I feel like that could’ve been a producer’s money saving tactic in late episodes of Nightrider or Air Wolf…

“Hey Michael, solving this crime on your own? Where’s Kit?”

“Oh we were just in a high speed pursuit together & I had jump out. I’m sure Kit will turn up sooner or later, must be getting a car wash or somethin’…”

“Michael, did you lose the car?”