Released in 1986, Top Gun quickly cemented itself as one of the most iconic films of its era. Tom Cruise soared into stardom as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, a fearless and ambitious fighter pilot sent to the Navy’s Top Gun school to prove he’s the best.
Alongside him, Kelly McGillis played Charlotte Blackwood, Maverick’s love interest, while Val Kilmer’s “Iceman” Kazansky served as his sharp-edged rival.
Directed by Tony Scott, the film was not just a box office phenomenon—earning more than $350 million worldwide—but also a cultural touchstone. Its unforgettable soundtrack, packed with hits like “Danger Zone” and “Take My Breath Away,” is still celebrated today.
More than three decades later, Top Gun continues to resonate, thanks in part to its memorable one-liners and powerful quotes that capture the spirit of courage, rivalry, and adventure.
Best Top Gun Quotes
1. “You don’t have time to think up there. If you think, you’re dead.” – Maverick
2. “When I fly, I’ll have you know that my crew and my plane come first.” – Maverick
3. “It’s time for the big one.” – Goose
4. “Every time we go up there, it’s like you’re flying with a ghost.” – Goose
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5. “You didn’t give me a chance, did you? You deserved it.” – Charlie
6. “It takes a lot more than just fancy flying.” – Charlie
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7. “You can be my wingman any time.” – Iceman
8. “The plaque for the alternates is down in the ladies’ room.” – Iceman
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9. “Son, your ego is writing checks your body can’t cash!” – Stinger
10. “Goose, whose butt did you kiss to get in here anyway?” – Slider
Top Gun Quotes By Maverick
11. “I think I’ll go embarrass myself with Goose.” – Maverick
12. “It’s classified. I could tell you, but then I’d have to kill you.” – Maverick
13. “This is what I call a target-rich environment.” – Maverick
14. “What’s your problem, Kazansky?” – Maverick
15. “I can see it’s dangerous for you, but if the government trusts me, maybe you could.” – Maverick
16. “Talk to me, Goose.” – Maverick
17. “Sorry, Goose, but it’s time to buzz the tower.” – Maverick
18. “If I can’t shoot this son of a bitch, let’s at least have some fun with him.” – Maverick
19. “He’s going vertical, so am I.” – Maverick
20. “That’s right, Iceman. I am dangerous.” – Maverick
21. “Ice water.” – Maverick
22. “She’s lost that loving feeling.” – Maverick
Top Gun Quotes By Goose
23. “Great balls of fire!” – Goose
24. “Show me the way home, honey.” – Goose
25. “No, he was a man. It was a great move. He was inverted.” – Goose