When American Made hit theaters in 2017, it promised an exhilarating portrayal of Barry Seal, a daredevil pilot brought to life by Tom Cruise. Beyond the fast-paced story of covert flights and undercover operations, however, lay a harrowing real-life event that would forever overshadow the film’s production. In September 2015, during the shooting of aerial sequences in Colombia, a tragic plane crash occurred, resulting in the loss of two lives and severe injuries for a third pilot. This devastating incident became a stark reminder of the dangers involved in filming action-heavy scenes, especially those requiring intricate flight maneuvers.
Setting the Stage: ‘American Made’ and Its Ambitious Aerial Scenes
American Made recounts the exploits of Barry Seal, a pilot who, according to the film’s narrative, worked for the CIA and became entangled in one of the most extraordinary undercover operations of the 1980s. Directed by Doug Liman, the movie aimed to capture the thrill of Seal’s high-stakes flights—an element that necessitated extensive aerial filming. Production teams often go to great lengths to ensure realistic visuals, using real aircraft whenever possible instead of relying solely on CGI. While such an approach can yield spectacular results on screen, it also demands rigorous planning, specialized expertise, and strict safety protocols.
To achieve maximum authenticity, the crew traveled to various locations, including Colombia. This choice allowed them to film landscapes that resembled those in Barry Seal’s actual flight routes. With Tom Cruise at the helm for many of the scenes—he is well-known for performing many of his own stunts—there was a commitment to making the flight sequences as genuine as possible. Multiple aircraft were brought in, and skilled pilots were hired to navigate the complexities of aerial choreography. In hindsight, this ambitious drive for realism would become entwined with the heartbreaking accident that followed.
The Incident: A Twin-Engine Aerostar 600 Crash
On one fateful day in September 2015, three pilots—Andrew D. Purwin, Jimmy Lee Garland, and Carlos Berl—were involved in a flight for the production. They were operating a twin-engine Aerostar 600 while filming in Colombia. The Aerostar series, prized for its speed and range, was chosen to replicate some of the daring maneuvers showcased in the movie. However, despite all the precautions normally taken during film shoots, tragedies can still occur when unforeseen conditions arise.
That day, something went drastically wrong. The Aerostar crashed, claiming the lives of two pilots and leaving the third, Jimmy Lee Garland, with serious injuries. Almost immediately, questions arose about what might have contributed to the disaster. Family members, aviation experts, and the public were left in shock, seeking answers to how a routine flight sequence for a Hollywood movie could turn so deadly.
Questions of Safety and Responsibility
In the aftermath of the crash, attention turned to the safety measures in place for aerial filming. Families of the victims initiated legal action, raising concerns about whether sufficient precautions had been taken. Their lawsuits called into question various aspects of the production process, including whether weather conditions, scheduling pressures, or aircraft issues played a role in the crash. Although details of these legal proceedings were not exhaustively disclosed to the public, the central issue lay in determining if any oversight, negligence, or miscommunication contributed to the tragedy.
During film shoots involving aircraft, coordination is paramount. Pilots, production crews, and safety officers typically work hand-in-hand to plan flight paths, assess weather updates, and conduct regular aircraft inspections. Even small lapses can escalate under real-world conditions, especially when filming in remote locations. Families of the pilots argued that the production team should have taken more rigorous steps to ensure everyone’s well-being. The lawsuits, filed against parties connected to the film, underscored the devastating consequences that can arise if any link in the safety chain is compromised.
Settlements and a Lasting Impact
Court proceedings often unfold quietly, and many details remain confidential once settlements are reached. By 2019, an undisclosed agreement was made between the parties involved. While the specifics of the settlement may never be fully known to the public, the resolution highlighted the real cost of the accident—not only in terms of financial compensation but also in the emotional toll on the victims’ families and the broader production community.
For those within the film industry, the tragedy served as a sobering cautionary tale about the need for stringent oversight in aerial stunts. Although regulations and protocols exist to minimize risks, the American Made accident reinforced the idea that safety standards must be constantly scrutinized and updated, especially in environments where unpredictability is part of the job. The heartbreak faced by the families and the lasting injuries suffered by Garland underscore that no action sequence is worth compromising fundamental safety practices.
Remembering the Pilots
Amid the headlines about lawsuits and production responsibility, it’s crucial to remember that the accident involved real people—professionals who dedicated their lives to aviation. Pilots like Andrew D. Purwin, who was a seasoned aviation expert, and Carlos Berl, who had voiced concerns about certain safety aspects, were integral to helping filmmakers achieve the thrilling flight scenes audiences crave. Jimmy Lee Garland, a pilot and mechanic who took on challenging tasks for the production, also served as a double for some scenes. Each of these individuals had families, aspirations, and careers shaped by a love of flying.
Their expertise was invaluable in bringing American Made to life. Tragically, two of those lives ended prematurely, and one was irrevocably altered. Acknowledging their passion and professionalism is one way to honor the significant role they played, even if the film industry continues to grapple with the best ways to prevent similar accidents.
Historical Echoes from ‘Top Gun’ and Other Productions
The American Made incident evoked memories of past film-related aviation tragedies, highlighting that such risks are not new to Hollywood. During the 1980s, flight sequences for other major motion pictures were sometimes marked by fatal accidents as well. These events underscore how important it is to learn from each incident. Technological advancements, improved communication systems, and better training techniques have lowered the risks over time, but any endeavor involving real aircraft inherently carries danger.
In reflecting upon these incidents, the film community often revisits and refines its safety protocols. Each tragedy prompts the industry to adapt, ensuring that every aspect of aerial shoots—from pilot training to weather assessments—is handled with utmost care. While the final product on screen might appear seamless and exhilarating, the behind-the-scenes work must be rigorous and safe.
Lingering Effects and Lessons Learned
Even as audiences today might watch American Made on streaming platforms without knowing the story behind the tragedy, the film remains a stark reminder of what can happen when real planes, real pilots, and complex flying conditions converge under tight production schedules. The families of the victims have emphasized the importance of thorough precautions to ensure that no other production suffers a similar fate. Ultimately, no cinematic achievement—no matter how thrilling—should come at the cost of human life or well-being.
The lessons stemming from the American Made accident reiterate the following points:
- Rigorous Pre-Flight Coordination
Meticulous planning, regular aircraft checks, and clear communication among pilots, crew members, and production teams can significantly lower risks. - Respect for Weather and Terrain
Even the most capable pilots can face unforeseen challenges due to shifting weather patterns and unfamiliar terrain, emphasizing the need for strict protocols. - Adequate Training and Preparation
Ensuring that pilots are fully comfortable and proficient with the specific aircraft used can make a critical difference in safety outcomes. - Continual Industry-Wide Evaluation
Following accidents, it is vital for film and aviation experts to collaborate, review what went wrong, and update guidelines to mitigate potential future incidents.
The heartbreaking accident that occurred during the filming of American Made remains a profound reminder of the very real dangers that lie behind exhilarating on-screen feats. In a profession that often romanticizes risk-taking, pilots, actors, and crew members all rely on robust safety measures to protect themselves and each other. While the film showcases Tom Cruise’s captivating portrayal of Barry Seal, the memory of those who lost their lives is equally important. Their contributions and sacrifices highlight the delicate balance between cinematic ambition and the responsibility to uphold the highest standards of safety.
Even now, the aftermath of the American Made tragedy informs how the entertainment industry approaches aerial filming. Each time a pilot takes off to capture that perfect shot, the lessons gleaned from past incidents come into play. As technology evolves and regulations become more precise, one hopes that the film community continues learning from these events, preserving the thrill of big-screen spectacle without placing lives unnecessarily at risk. Ultimately, the story behind American Made is not just about one film or one crash—it is a timeless testament to the importance of valuing human life above all else, even in pursuit of cinematic greatness.
