Bryan Costa, director of maintenance at Warbird Adventures, dedicates his time and skill to restoring and maintaining historical vintage aircraft.
Wesley Atteberry of Warbird Adventures shares, “Bryan believes that warbirds are flying pieces of history and deserve to be taken care of accordingly. In short, the man is a work machine in the name of preservation and safety.”
Reflecting on his proudest achievements, Costa says, “I'm proud of obtaining my A&P IA, PPL and to be entrusted as the Director of Maintenance of these quite literal flying legends. Directing and performing a fire wall forward restoration on a F4U corsair. Many accomplishments, particularly on the P40 Warhawk such as two-seat dual control conversion, autopilot install and numerous engine installs and annual inspections…becoming one of the few T-6 go-to experts, bringing in more and more T-6 annuals every year.”
Atteberry adds, “Bryan also has many young aspiring mechanics under his wing, as he believes it’s important to pass on the practice to the next generation so that we can keep these birds flying for years to come. Bryan graciously donates hundreds of hours of time each month to teaching these young men and women the right way and safe way to be when it comes to maintenance.”
This reputation aligns with Costa’s vision for the future of aviation. He shares, “I want to help create a place where aviators and future aviators can visit, learn, interact, fly, maintain, relax and have fun. Encouraging future generations [to pursue] a career in aviation is not only possible but, with proper drive and education, easily obtainable. Flight school, full maintenance shop, aircraft maintenance classes, resort and airshows all in one.”
To young professionals looking to get into aviation, Costa says, “Step into that local airport hangar, say hi and lend a hand. Step into that aircraft and maintain it like your family flies it. Keep stepping towards those dreams and always keep striving to do your best work.”
He also offers specific advice for aspiring mechanics, urging, “Try to understand EVERYTHING. Why is that part designed that way, what is its function, what are its weaknesses, its strengths? Delve into the engineer’s head and the many more before them.”
