The Realities Behind Fighter Jet Scenes in Top Gun: Maverick

When Top Gun: Maverick hit theaters, audiences and critics were left in awe of the flight sequences. It's a common question to wonder who is actually flying the planes in these incredibly realistic scenes.

Naval Aviators Actually Flew the Planes

Navy aviators were indeed responsible for flying the planes in some instances, but not as you might think. This isn't a simple matter of actors volunteering to take the controls. Top Gun: Maverick involved a comprehensive training program that ensured authenticity and safety.

The Extensive Training Process

According to KTLA 75, the cast underwent a rigorous three-month training program to prepare for their roles. This intensive training was conducted by the films' aerial coordinator and camera pilot, Kevin LaRosa. The goal was to provide both the cast and the audience with an authentic experience, allowing actors to react naturally and convincingly to the flight scenarios.

The Behind-the-Scenes Story

While the actors were involved in learning to fly, the actual flying was usually done by military pilots. These experienced aviators commandeered the planes, ensuring that each filmed scene was genuine and thrilling. This approach was necessary to mimic the airborne acrobatics and maneuvers required for the movie's intense flight sequences.

Costing Over 11,000 per Hour

Despite the authenticity and the meticulous training process, the cost of having Navy pilots fly the planes was considerable. Each hour of filming with the military pilots cost over 11,000 USD. Additionally, the production utilized 27 different cameras to capture every angle and maneuver, further emphasizing the high cost and dedication required for these scenes.

Of course, some actors did fly in the plane's back seats and even mimicked flying during certain scenes. Their reactions were often unscripted, capturing the genuine emotions and exhilaration of the moment. This helped to create a more immersive and believable experience for the viewers.

Conclusion

The flight scenes in Top Gun: Maverick are a testament to the dedication and hard work of the cast and crew. A combination of extensive training, skilled military pilots, and advanced cinematography came together to create the highly realistic and thrilling scenes that have captivated audiences worldwide.