Pilot dies in air show crash at Las Cruces Expo
Pilot was performing aerobatic manoeuvres when the crash occurred
A tragic plane crash claimed the life of an experienced pilot during an air show in New Mexico. Charles Thomas “Chuck” Coleman, a seasoned stunt performer, was the only occupant of the two-seat Extra Flugzeugbau EA300 monoplane when it crashed around 2:30 p.m. on Sunday at the Las Cruces Air and Space Expo, officials confirmed Monday.
Coleman was executing aerobatic manoeuvres approximately half a mile west of Las Cruces International Airport when the incident occurred. The air show was subsequently cancelled following the crash.
Coleman’s biography reveals he was a highly skilled pilot based in California. With over 10,000 flight hours, he had showcased his piloting expertise at numerous air shows and provided more than 3,000 aerobatic rides. Additionally, he served as an aerobatic flight instructor for the 2022 film “Top Gun: Maverick,” conducting over 100 flights to train actors for their roles in the U.S. Navy F-18 Hornets.
#Breaking Yesterday (20/10) An Extra EA 300/L aerobatic plane crashed in New Mexico (US). Pilot died. Accident occured during an air show in Las Cruces International Airport. Aircraft was registered as “N512DW”. Updates when possible #aviation Video source @KFOX14 pic.twitter.com/cyHCsOI9yB
— Air Safety #OTD by Francisco Cunha (@OnDisasters) October 21, 2024
Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez expressed his condolences to Coleman’s family and admirers in a statement, offering heartfelt sympathy.
The crash is under investigation by New Mexico State Police, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the National Transportation Safety Board. During the initial probe, the airport was temporarily closed, allowing only scheduled and emergency flights.
What Other Media Are Saying
- El Paso Times reports on Chuck Coleman, a pilot who died in a Las Cruces plane crash, trained ‘Top Gun’ actors and is remembered by the aerospace community for his expertise.(read more)
- The Coast Reporter highlights Charles Thomas “Chuck” Coleman, an accomplished aerobatic instructor and performer at hundreds of air shows, killed in a plane crash during the Las Cruces Air and Space Expo.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who was the pilot that died in the New Mexico air show crash?
Charles Thomas “Chuck” Coleman.
What type of plane was involved in the crash?
An Extra Flugzeugbau EA300 monoplane.
Why was the Las Cruces Air and Space Expo canceled?
It was canceled due to the crash involving Chuck Coleman.
What was Chuck Coleman known for besides performing at air shows?
He was an aerobatic flight instructor for “Top Gun: Maverick.”
Who is investigating the plane crash?
New Mexico State Police, FAA, and NTSB.
