Set Mishap on American Made: Behind the Scenes With Tom Cruise

During the making of American Made, a movie centered on dangerous flights and covert aviation, a real tragedy occurred behind the scenes. The production’s drive to mirror the reckless spirit of Barry Seal’s story revealed how easily safety can be overshadowed by urgency and spectacle in high-pressure filmmaking.

In September 2015, a twin-engine Aerostar 600 hired for aerial filming crashed in Colombia. Three veteran pilots were on board: Andrew Purwin, Jimmy Lee Garland, and Carlos Berl. Purwin and Berl were killed, while Garland survived with severe injuries that ended his flying career.

Although all three were highly experienced, questions quickly arose about how the flight was approved. Court documents later showed that Berl had expressed concerns about the aircraft’s condition, but those warnings were allegedly ignored. Each pilot was known for skill, though some were also recognized for pushing limits.

Weather conditions worsened on the day of the flight, yet the mission reportedly continued due to tight schedules and production pressure. The plane crashed in difficult terrain, leaving little chance of survival.

Afterward, Garland and the victims’ families sued the production companies, citing negligence and a culture that prioritized deadlines over safety. They alleged mechanical issues, certification disputes, and pressure to fly despite concerns.

The case was settled in 2019, but the outcome could not undo the damage. Two lives were lost, and Garland’s future in aviation was permanently destroyed.

The accident became a stark reminder that cinematic realism carries real consequences. While safety standards have since improved, the tragedy underscored a lasting truth: no film achievement is worth a human life.