Brian Thomas is a self-proclaimed aviation nerd, having attended his first airshow with his father at eight years old. “From that point, I’ve been fascinated with aviation, and built large scale RC aircraft through my youth,” he says. He was also involved with the Civil Air Patrol cadet program at a young age. He enlisted in the Army National Guard as a 67N UH-1 Helicopter Mechanic. Brian has been employed in the aviation industry throughout his life, starting in line service, moving into FBO management, and then venturing into Corporate Aircraft Interior Refurbishments where he has spent the last 15 years. He presently manages the Upholstery Shop at Sikorsky where he is tasked with production of the VH-92A Presidential Heli Interiors.
BRIAN THOMAS
“Outside of work, I’m heavily involved with nearly anything to do with aviation,” Brian says. He is a member of several EAA chapters, Warbirds of America, and the Vintage Aircraft Association, and enjoys historical aircraft research. He is an avid hiker and enjoys photography. He is restoring a 1942 Aeronca L3B. “I hope to complete it as a memorial and a fun way to educate youth of the sacrifices made by our greatest generation,” he says.
Throughout his travels for work, Brian has noticed a common theme ring true. He says, “You’d better enjoy this slice of heaven and work to preserve these destinations, so they don’t become something other than an airport. To that end, as Connecticut Liaison, I am eager to do what I can to help preserve grassroots airports and promote the RAF mission.”
Brian can be reached at bthomas@theraf.org.
Ph: 302-660-9626
Posted in Connecticut State Liaison, State Liaison
Recent Posts
Our many RAF supporters have such vast and varied experience, and we’re capturing some of their words of wisdom to share with you. This guest editorial is by Cindy Cross, RAF VP of Appreciation.
The Beechcraft Heritage Museum at Tullahoma Regional Airport is the site of a new RAF Fire Hub, provided by an RAF grant submitted by Tennessee Ambassador Steve Lewis. The Parish family, who own the Beechcraft Museum, along with other RAF volunteers, contributed to the preparation and installation of the fire hub. They completed the project in time for folks to enjoy it during the annual Beech Party event over the October 10-11 weekend. The 20-foot diameter permanent concrete base was provided by a private donor. The fire ring and three 10-foot-long propeller blades were designed and fabricated by RAF Volunteer Pete Smith of Lewistown, Montana, with design assistance from Pete's son Matt Smith of Bozeman, Montana. The structure lies east of the 2,775-ft turf Parish Aerodrome runway adjacent to the Beechcraft Heritage Museum. “This permanent installation will showcase the RAF mission as the Museum draws visitors from around the country,” Lewis said. For more information on the airport, see the Airfield Guide . Submitted October 21, 2026
Michigan RAF volunteers had a very successful work party at Hanley Field (5Y7) in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula the October 10-11 weekend. Led by Michigan Ambassador Ryan Minnick, the crew, including Michigan Liaison Tanmoy Ganguly, cut and stacked firewood, repaired the sink and water heater, and relocated the airport sign along the road for better visibility. “We had a great weekend and got a good amount of work done. It was great connecting with supporters from the area,” Minnick said. “The assistant airport manager was there and was very happy with the results that came out of the work party.” Fourteen remained to camp Saturday night. Find more about Hanley Field in the Airfield Guide . Submitted October 21, 2026
