A former Army captain on board a helicopter shouted out a phrase from the film Top Gun just moments before it crashed, an inquest heard today.

Captain Robert Earle was on board an RAF Benson-based Puma with a group of young soldiers as it took part in a training exercise near Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, on August 8, 2007.

The inquest at Harrogate Magistrates’ Court heard Mr Earle use the phrase “yeeha Jester’s dead” as the aircraft flew low and fast over the countryside.

Moments later the £20m aircraft crashed.

The phrase is used in the Hollywood blockbuster Top Gun starring Tom Cruise.

Asked to explain what he had meant, Mr Earle said: “I believe I made that comment because there was a situation with young men doing something exciting.

“I didn't feel out of my comfort zone, but a manoeuvre had just been executed.”

Mr Earle told the inquest he did not believe the crew were flying dangerously, but said he had little recollection of the accident.

Flight Lieutenant David Sale, 28, Sergeant Phillip Burfoot, 27, and 17-year-old Army recruit Private Sean Tait were killed in the accident. Flt Lt Robert Hamilton was left paraplegic as a result of his injuries.

The inquest continues.