Flight instructor from Top Gun: Maverick dies in small plane crash at New Mexico air show | US News
The flight instructor who trained actors in the 2022 Top Gun: Maverick movie has tragically passed away in a small plane crash during an air show in New Mexico.
Charles Thomas “Chuck” Coleman was the sole occupant of the two-seat Extra Flugzeugbau EA300 monoplane when it crashed around 2:30pm local time on Sunday.
Mr. Coleman was engaged in aerobatics when the plane went down during the Las Cruces Air and Space Expo at the Las Cruces International Airport, as stated by city officials.
The air show was canceled following the crash, which occurred approximately half a mile west of the airport.
According to Mr. Coleman’s website, he was California-based and had a background in engineering, aerobatics, and test piloting with over 10,000 hours of flight experience.
He participated in numerous air shows and provided over 3,000 aerobatic aircraft rides, as mentioned on his website.
He trained the cast of Top Gun, starring Tom Cruise, flying over 100 flights to prepare them for flight in US Navy F-18 Hornets.
Chuck Coleman prepared the film cast for flying in F-18 Hornet pic: AP
Actor Miles Teller honored Mr. Coleman, mentioning he was crucial in preparing them for Top Gun: Maverick.
“He was a skilled aerospace engineer, airshow and test pilot, and a dear friend. Chuck had a relaxed demeanor and we always felt secure with his expertise at our disposal.
“He was kind, unassuming, and keen on others and the world we live in. Taken too soon, but his impact will endure. Thank you for the memories, Chuck.”
Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez expressed condolences on Monday: “We extend our deepest sympathies to Chuck Coleman’s loved ones and admirers.”
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The crash is under investigation by New Mexico State Police, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the National Transportation Safety Board.
The airport was briefly shut down during the initial investigation, permitting only scheduled and emergency response flights.
