Charles Thomas “Chuck” Coleman, the talented flight instructor who trained actors for the 2022 Top Gun: Maverick movie, tragically lost his life in a small plane crash during the Las Cruces Air and Space Expo in New Mexico. The incident occurred at the Las Cruces International Airport during an aerobatic performance, leading to the cancellation of the air show. Chuck Coleman, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, was known for his expertise as an engineer, aerobatic, and test pilot with over 10,000 hours of flight time.
According to his website, Mr. Coleman had a distinguished career performing at numerous air shows and providing over 3,000 rides in aerobatic aircraft. His most notable role was as the flight instructor for the cast of Top Gun, where he flew more than 100 flights to prepare the actors for their roles flying in US Navy F-18 Hornets. Actor Miles Teller, who starred in the movie, paid tribute to Chuck Coleman, emphasizing his instrumental role in their preparation and his kind and humble demeanor.
The Mayor of Las Cruces, Eric Enriquez, expressed his deepest condolences to Chuck Coleman’s loved ones and fans, acknowledging his significant contributions to the aviation community. The tragic accident is currently under investigation by the New Mexico State Police, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the National Transportation Safety Board. Following the crash, the airport was temporarily closed to facilitate the investigation, allowing only scheduled and emergency response flights.
Chuck Coleman’s untimely passing has left a void in the aviation world, with many remembering him for his talent, expertise, and warm personality. His legacy as a skilled pilot and instructor will undoubtedly live on, impacting those he worked with and inspired throughout his career. The loss of such a respected figure in the industry serves as a reminder of the risks associated with aerobatics and the importance of safety measures in aviation. The investigation into the crash will provide valuable insights to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the safety of pilots and performers in air shows.
