RenegadeAV8R Jet Airshows
The Performer
RenegadeAV8R Jet Airshows brings modern intensity and historic jet power together in a performance that is as thought‑provoking as it is adrenaline‑charged. Flown by David Costa, RenegadeAV8R is built around a simple idea: preserve a rare military jet, fly it aggressively—but responsibly—and use it to inspire the next generation of aviators, engineers, and dreamers.
Costa is uniquely visible in the aviation community not only as an airshow pilot, but also as the voice behind The RenegadeAV8R Show, a long‑running aviation podcast and media platform that promotes excellence, discipline, and persistence in flight and in life. His airshow presence extends beyond the flying demonstration—connecting directly with audiences through education, personal interaction, and storytelling throughout the show weekend.
Based at Minden‑Tahoe Airport in Nevada, RenegadeAV8R has deep roots in the western airshow circuit and a growing national presence, appearing at civilian airshows, military base open houses, and aviation‑focused community events across the United States.
The Aircraft: TS‑11 Iskra
RenegadeAV8R flies the only TS‑11 Iskra jet currently performing on the North American airshow circuit, making it one of the rarest jet demonstrations audiences can experience anywhere in the world.
Designed and built in Poland, the TS‑11 Iskra was an advanced military jet trainer that served for more than 50 years with the Polish Air Force and other Eastern Bloc nations during the Cold War. The aircraft was engineered to introduce pilots to jet speed, tactical maneuvering, and formation operations—capabilities that remain on full display in today’s airshow environment.
With its compact size, swept wings, and turbojet powerplant, the Iskra delivers:
Crisp throttle response and rapid acceleration
High‑speed, low‑altitude passes with unmistakable jet sound
Energy‑management maneuvers that highlight its trainer‑to‑fighter lineage
Preserved, maintained, and flown under strict FAA and ICAS safety standards, this aircraft represents a living piece of Cold War aviation history—no longer confined to museums, but alive and flying.
