Remembering Chris Coffee
a life of faith, family, aviation and service in arnhem land
Chris Coffee was a husband, father, musician, mentor and highly skilled pilot. He lived with a deep faith in Jesus, a love for his family and a passion for using aviation to bring help and hope to others.
In May 2023, Chris and his wife Ali joined Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) in Arnhem Land, serving remote Yolŋu communities with dedication and joy. Just over a year later, Chris was appointed Deputy Country Director of the program, continuing to invest in others through leadership, mentoring and care.
In January 2025, Chris passed away in a car accident while serving with MAF in Arnhem Land. His life was full of love – for God, for his family and for the people he served.
Though he is deeply missed, his legacy continues to inspire. Through the Chris Coffee Aviation Foundation, others will be trained, mentored and encouraged to live and serve with the same faith, courage and joy that Chris carried into every part of his life.
chris the pilot
Chris trained as a pilot at Bankstown Airport, earning his Diploma of Aviation through Box Hill TAFE before completing further training at Fly Oz in Cowra, NSW. His skill, dedication and calm presence made him a much-loved flight instructor, guiding many students to success.
He obtained both his Multi-Engine Instrument Rating and Grade 2 Instructor Rating, and even when faced with in-flight emergencies – including a full engine failure on take-off – he showed remarkable composure and professionalism.
Chris joined MAF in 2023, flying GA8 Airvans and Cessna Caravans to Homeland communities and towns across Arnhem Land and beyond. He was known not only as a capable pilot but as a caring one.
“Chris was a fantastic pilot and amazing human who made all his passengers feel safe and calm. The staff and students at Laynhapuy Homelands School flew with him weekly and had a great affection for him.” – Abi White, Principal of Laynhapuy Homelands School, Northern Territory, Australia
Service in Arnhem Land
Chris’ service in Arnhem Land was marked by warmth, humility, and respect for the Yolŋu people he flew and lived among. He went beyond the cockpit, taking time to listen, learn and engage with culture and language.
Passengers often spoke of how safe and calm they felt when Chris was at the controls.
“His warmth was such a comfort. I always enjoyed seeing his great big smile and felt so safe flying with him.” – Nikki Hammond, Passenger
Chris was more than a pilot — he was a friend, a mentor and a steady presence for the communities he served.
A Man of Faith
Guided by God’s Call
Faith in Jesus was at the centre of Chris’ life. As a young boy he began writing songs to express his growing faith, and at the age of 12 he chose to be baptised.
“Chris was one of the finest men we have known, showing strength and determination with a gentleness that reflected his saviour.” – Stuart Coulton, former Principal of SMBC, January 2025
As he matured, Chris sensed God’s call to Canada, where he shared his faith openly and upon his return to Australia, pursued Bible college studies to better understand Scripture and teach others.
His faith wasn’t just words – it was lived out daily, from the way he loved his family to the way he prayed with passengers before flights.
Devoted Husband & Father, son & brother
Chris loved his family deeply. He was an attentive, fun, and prayerful dad, and a devoted husband to Ali. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, music, and hospitality.
Meals around the table, watching ice hockey, or simply sharing a coffee – Chris delighted in welcoming others into their lives. He prayed faithfully with his family, pointing his children to the love of Jesus in both word and action.
Joy, Humour and Kindness
Chris had a remarkable ability to see people as they truly were and extend forgiveness and grace. He approached difficult conversations with wisdom and compassion, reflecting the love of Christ.
He also had a sharp wit and a great sense of humour – always quick with a pun or wordplay that could fill a room with laughter.
Chris loved music and often sang while playing his guitar, during lunch breaks, or even while completing pre-flight checks. With a strong voice and perfect pitch, he brought joy wherever he went.
words about chris
Chris touched many lives. Friends, colleagues, and passengers continue to reflect on the impact he had:
“There are not many people that I truly look up to, pun intended, but Chris as a man with Jesus’ character is one.” – Steve Taylor, Year 12 Advisor
“I am so thankful for having known Chris and his family and experiencing his joy and friendship. The things he has deposited in my life I will carry with me forever.” – Ethan McMaster, MAF Colleague, Arnhem Land
“I was inspired when I flew with Chris. He always prayed with passengers before take-off, and the impact was huge. I aspire to remind people about Jesus on every flight just like Chris did.” – Mel Higgins, MAF Colleague, Arnhem Land
Carrying Chris’ Legacy Forward
The Foundation helps others flourish – not only as pilots and instructors, but as people shaped by discipleship and the love of Jesus.
The Chris Coffee Aviation Foundation exists to continue the work Chris was so passionate about: training, mentoring and equipping future aviators and leaders to serve others with skill, care and faith.
“The remote and barely known places are not unknown to God.” – Chris Coffee
With your support, the Foundation will honour Chris’ legacy and invest in the next generation of aviators who will bring help, hope and healing to the most isolated places.
