Pilots Will Love Top Gun: Maverick—It’s a Lot More Real

Pilots Will Love <i>Top Gun: Maverick</i>—It’s a Lot More Real

Julie Boatman

Tuesday, May 24, 2022 at 05:58 PM ET

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Aerial coordinator Kevin “K2” LaRosa II says Tom Cruise inspired him to "set the bar higher." [Courtesy: Skydance]

Key Takeaways:

Kevin "K2" LaRosa II, aerial coordinator for *Top Gun: Maverick*, drew upon his extensive, third-generation aviation background and specialized training to produce the film's dynamic aerial sequences.
To achieve unprecedented realism, LaRosa designed and developed the L-39 Cinejet, an optimized camera jet, which, alongside other specialized aircraft, enabled stable, high-speed, and maneuverable aerial cinematography.
The role of an aerial coordinator, as highlighted by LaRosa, demands a unique 50/50 blend of expert piloting skills across various aircraft and a deep understanding of filmmaking, including lighting, composition, and camera technology.

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For a movie as iconic as Top Gun, the sequel has been a long time coming. Normally, the ink is barely dry on the celluloid of version 1.0 before the next installment goes into production, ready to ride the wave of popularity and interest of that first smash hit.

But this aviation-fueled audience has waited since 1986—and there’s good reason for that. FLYING learned the secrets during an interview with top Hollywood aerial coordinator Kevin “K2” LaRosa II. He’s vice president of aerial film production for Helinet Aviation Services, and he produced the dynamic and compelling aerial ballet that comprises the heart and soul of Top Gun: Maverick.