
Charles Thomas 'Chuck' Coleman, the acclaimed aerobatic pilot who served as a flight instructor for the 'Top Gun: Maverick' cast, passed away in a tragic plane crash during an air show in New Mexico.
- Oct 23, 2024
AceShowbiz - Charles "Chuck" Coleman, the highly respected engineer and flight instructor who trained the stars of "Top Gun: Maverick", was tragically killed in a plane crash during an air show in New Mexico. Chuck Coleman died while performing at the Las Cruces Air and Space Expo on October 20.
"RIP Chuck Coleman," Miles Teller, one of the lead actors in "Top Gun: Maverick," wrote on social media. "Chuck was our aerobatics flight instructor and instrumental in our preparation for 'Top Gun: Maverick.' He was an aerospace engineer, air show and test pilot, and our friend and ally." Miles added that Chuck had a very easygoing way about him, and he expressed gratitude for the memories they shared.
Chuck Coleman, a Michigan native, had over 10,000 hours of flight time under his belt. He performed in hundreds of airshows and provided over 3,000 rides in aerobatic aircraft. His extensive knowledge and calming presence were crucial during the preparation of the "Top Gun: Maverick" actors to fly Navy's F-18 Hornets. According to his biography, Coleman worked on numerous other films and shows, including documentaries such as "Black Sky: The Race for Space" and "Black Sky: Winning the X Prize".
The incident is currently being investigated by the Federal Aviation Administration, the National Transportation Safety Board and New Mexico State Police. Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez expressed his condolences, describing Chuck as "a well-known and respected engineer, aerobatic and test pilot with more than 10,000 hours of flight time."
"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," Teller added.
Further details surrounding the crash are still being investigated, but officials confirmed that Chuck was the only person aboard his single-engine Extra Flugzeugbau 300/L aircraft when it tragically went down. As fans and friends await more information, they continue to celebrate the incredible legacy that Chuck Coleman left behind.