“Top Gun: Maverick” Trainer Chuck Coleman Dies in Crash

A tragic plane crash at the Las Cruces Air and Space Expo claims the life of Chuck Coleman, the respected flight instructor who trained actors for “Top Gun: Maverick.”

At a Glance

Chuck Coleman, a renowned pilot and “Top Gun: Maverick” flight instructor, died in an airshow crash.
Coleman was performing aerobatic maneuvers in an Extra Flugzeugbau EA300 monoplane when the accident occurred.
The veteran pilot had over 10,000 flight hours and trained actors for the blockbuster film.
Miles Teller and Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez paid tribute to Coleman’s expertise and contributions.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash.

Tragic Loss of a Top Gun Instructor

The aviation community and Hollywood are mourning the loss of Chuck Coleman, a highly respected pilot and flight instructor who played a crucial role in the making of “Top Gun: Maverick.” Coleman tragically lost his life in a plane crash during a performance at the Las Cruces Air and Space Expo in New Mexico. The accident occurred while Coleman was piloting a single-engine Extra Flugzeugbau EA300 monoplane, showcasing his renowned aerobatic skills.

Coleman’s impressive career spanned both the aerospace industry and Hollywood. As a senior design engineer for the F/A-18 Hornet used by NASA and the U.S. Navy, he brought unparalleled expertise to his role as a flight instructor. His contributions to “Top Gun: Maverick” were instrumental in preparing the film’s actors for their roles as Navy pilots.

Miles Teller is honoring late 'Top Gun: Maverick' flight instructor Charles 'Chuck' Coleman after the noted aerobatic pilot died in a plane crash during a New Mexico air show. https://t.co/1EjnXprFrl

— Entertainment Weekly (@EW) October 23, 2024

A Legacy of Excellence in Aviation

Chuck Coleman’s impact on the aviation world extended far beyond his work on “Top Gun: Maverick.” With over 10,000 hours of flight time, he was known for his exceptional skills as an air show performer, test pilot, and aerospace engineer. His expertise made him an invaluable asset to the film industry, where he conducted over 100 flights to prepare actors for the demanding aerial scenes in the blockbuster movie.

“Chuck had a very easy going way about him and we always felt comfortable with his expertise at our disposal. He was kind, humble and curious about others and the world we live in. Gone too soon but his contributions will live on forever. Thanks for the memories, Chuck,” Actor Miles Teller said.

Coleman’s work at “Tom Cruise’s School of Flying” was crucial in ensuring the authenticity and safety of the film’s aerial sequences. The rigorous training program, designed by Tom Cruise and Kevin La Rosa Jr., included intense simulations such as underwater ejection seat rotations to prepare actors for potential emergencies.

Investigation and Community Response

The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation into the tragic accident. Las Cruces airport remains closed as authorities work to determine the cause of the crash. Mayor Eric Enriquez of Las Cruces expressed the community’s grief, extending condolences to Coleman’s family and fans.

“Unfortunately, we had a tragic ending to our Air and Space Expo this weekend. There was an aircraft accident during Sunday’s performance that resulted in the death of pilot, Charles T. “Chuck” Coleman. We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the loved ones and fans of Chuck Coleman,” Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez said.

The aviation community and fans of “Top Gun: Maverick” have come together to honor Coleman’s memory and his significant contributions to both the film industry and aerospace engineering. His legacy as a skilled pilot, dedicated instructor, and innovative engineer will continue to inspire future generations in the field of aviation.