Tom Cruise and the Cast of ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ Flew Real Aircraft for the Film
Top Gun: Maverick, starring Tom Cruise, has been breaking box office records worldwide since its release on May 27. The latest installment in Cruise’s illustrious career is captivating audiences and critics alike, continuing the legacy of the original film.
A True Aviation Experience
Set 36 years after the first Top Gun, Tom Cruise shines once again as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell. A burning question for fans has been whether the actors actually flew planes during the filming process. The answer is yes. Sources reveal that not only did Cruise perform aerial stunts without a body double, but he also insisted that co-stars Monica Barbaro, Glen Powell, and Miles Teller learn how to fly.
Kevin LaRosa Jr., an experienced aerial coordinator, trained the cast in flight techniques, guiding them through an extensive course. LaRosa, who has deep knowledge of Hollywood aviation, has worked on multiple projects as a pilot and coordinator, including Godzilla (2014) and Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015).
Attention to Every Detail
According to LaRosa, the actors began their training on a small Cessna 172 aircraft, where they learned the fundamental rules of flying. He explained to Variety: “We started with the Cessna 172 and taught the actors basic principles of flight. This allowed them to visualize what it’s like to take off and land, where to look, and where to place their hands.”
The training program became increasingly complex, preparing the actors for the intense pressures of the cockpit. They progressed from the Extra 300 to the L-39 Albatross trainer aircraft, eventually flying the advanced F/A-18 fighter jets used in the film.
An Iconic Story
Top Gun: Maverick serves as a direct sequel to the 1986 film directed by Tony Scott, which grossed $357 million worldwide. In this new installment, Maverick takes on the challenge of training an elite team of pilots to operate F/A-18 fighter jets for a crucial mission. The film has been warmly received, boasting a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and earning a “Fresh” certification.
Premiering in 4,735 theaters across North America on May 27, Top Gun: Maverick achieved the highest opening weekend revenue of Tom Cruise’s four-decade-long career. It became his first film to surpass $100 million in ticket sales during the opening week, cementing its place in cinematic history.
With breathtaking aerial footage and a realistic portrayal of military aviation, Top Gun: Maverick not only honors the legacy of its predecessor but also elevates Tom Cruise’s status as a Hollywood icon. As audiences continue to flock to theaters, the film is setting new records, proving that the spirit of Top Gun is still very much alive.
