Behind the Wings
Stunt Flying for Top Gun: Maverick - Episode 40
· Summarized
Key takeaways
- Scott's passion for aviation ignited from early experiences with the Blue Angels and the original Top Gun movie.
- Transitioning from accounting to aviation is possible, showcasing that pursuing dreams is crucial.
- Being part of the Blue Angels taught Scott precision, teamwork, and the importance of feedback.
- All flight scenes in Top Gun: Maverick were shot in real-time, providing a realistic portrayal of aerial maneuvers.
- Scott's final advice: Don't shy away from asking questions; opportunities are often missed due to hesitation.
Summary
Introduction to Scott Kartvedt
Scott Kartvedt, a retired F-18 Blue Angel and top gun stunt pilot, shares his exhilarating journey from an accounting student to a celebrated fighter pilot. After being inspired by the original Top Gun movie, he pursued his dream, ultimately flying the F-18 and joining the prestigious Blue Angels. His story highlights the passion and determination needed to break into the challenging world of elite aviation.
The Blue Angels Experience
Scott provides an insider's perspective on what it’s like to be a Blue Angel pilot. He emphasizes the importance of precision, teamwork, and attention to detail in performing aerial maneuvers. Scott discusses the rigorous selection process and training, where owning mistakes and learning from them is crucial. His belief in the camaraderie and trust between pilots seamlessly translates into performance excellence.
Stunt Flying and Top Gun: Maverick
In this thrilling segment, Scott recounts his pivotal role in the making of Top Gun: Maverick. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about filming high-adrenaline scenes and the techniques used to ensure realistic portrayals. With incredible anecdotes about flying L-39s, dogfighting with helicopters, and capturing breathtaking shots, Scott gives listeners an authentic glimpse into the cinematic experience.
Advice for Aspiring Aviators
Wrapping up the episode, Scott imparts valuable advice for aspiring aviators and anyone looking to pursue their dreams. He emphasizes the importance of saying yes to opportunities, owning up to one's mistakes, and asking questions. His words inspire listeners to remain courageous and proactive in their pursuits, reinforcing the belief that if you don't ask, the answer is always no.
Sponsors
- Scott Kartvedt's Website · Visit Scott Kartvedt's website for more about his flying experiences and insights.
Show notes
Former F-18 and Blue Angels pilot, Scott Kartvedt, takes us behind the scenes of flying in Top Gun: Maverick.
In this episode hear behind-the-scenes stories of how some of the most realistic flying scenes are made. Scott tells us about his time in the Navy, flying as a Blue Angel and on the Patriots Jet team, and "dogfighting" with a helicopter while filming. This one is going to be cool!
Episode 40 marks the end of Season 4 of the Behind the Wings Podcast. We'll be taking a short break and will be back later this year for Season 5.
Key Takeaways:
- Scott's love of aviation started when he saw Blue Angels flying over his family's campsite. The original Top Gun also fueled his ambition to join the Navy.
- Scott started school as an accountant but later followed his dream of becoming a fighter pilot.
- In the Navy, Scott flew the F-18 as a fighter pilot and for the Blue Angels.
- All flying scenes in Maverick were performed and filmed in real time.
- Scott and his wingman Randy Howell flew as stunt pilots in L-39 jets for the final scene in Maverick. They were later edited over to match the fighters in the movie.
- While filming, Scott would often fly straight at the helicopter and pull away at the last second.
- Scott leaves us with encouraging advice to ask the question. If you don't ask, the answer is always no.
Resources:
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