Dario Costa

Professional stunt and para-dropping pilot and aerobatic performer, Dario Costa, was the first ever Italian to compete and win in the Red Bull Air Race. He is known for his numerous word-first stunts and setting many world records, including the only flight through a tunnel with an aeroplane. 

Dario has had a passion for flying since his early childhood and began to learn piloting while still at high school, undertaking his first solo flight at just 16 years old. He was awarded Aeroclub Bologna’s first scholarship, which helped him to obtain his commercial pilot, flight instructor and aerobatic flight-instructor qualifications.

Whilst both teaching and competing in aerobatics, Costa has truly evolved with the sport and was the contest director of the 2011 FAI World Aerobatic Championships. He went on to become Chief Flight and Ground Instructor at the Aeroclub Milano.

In 2013, Dario joined the Red Bull Air Race World Championship as flight operations manager, development and ferry pilot. He then became the first Italian to qualify as a Red Bull Air Race World Championship race pilot in 2016. From that point on, he has continued to push the boundaries of aviation, setting numerous world records and performing world-first stunts. 

A popular choice for keynote speeches, Dario draws on his previous experience in the world of aviation and aerobatics to inspire and motivate the audience. Topics he covers include Teamwork, Debunking the myth of natural talent and Mental Preparation, amongst many others!