Warbird Restoration to Modern Projects: An Aviation Journey

Finding a Path into Aviation

After 12 years with Salus Aviation, Projects Foreman Andrew Tregidga, known around the hangar as “Chitty”, has built a career grounded in precision, teamwork, and pride in the work. But like many in the industry, his path into aviation wasn’t a straight line.

“I left school not really knowing what I wanted to do,” Andrew says. “Then an opportunity came up with Avspecs, restoring WWII fighter aircraft.”

He completed his apprenticeship there, working on aircraft that went on to win multiple awards around the world—an early experience that set the tone for the standards he carries today.

Joining the Salus Team

An old school friend eventually encouraged Andrew to join the, then Airwork team. More than a decade on, it’s the people who’ve made the biggest impact.

“It’s the team. It feels like a second home.”

Over the years, he’s seen the Projects team grow into a highly skilled group that works closely together and supports one another.

“We’ve built a strong team that backs each other. That makes a big difference when you’re working on complex projects.”

Work That Matters

The Projects team handles major inspections and complex modifications—work that demands technical expertise and attention to detail at every stage.

For Andrew, one of the most memorable moments isn’t tied to a single project, but to what the work enables.

“Watching a search and rescue aircraft fly overhead, saving lives—and knowing just how many thousands upon thousands of parts our team has meticulously put together to get it there—that sticks with you.”

It’s a reminder that the work done in the hangar has real impact well beyond it.

Pride in the Projects

Among the many projects he’s contributed to, two 2018 medical fit-out and refurbishments stand out as highlights.

They’re the kind of projects that combine engineering skill with purpose—delivering aircraft that are not only technically sound, but equipped to make a difference.

An Evolving Industry

Like much of aviation, the maintenance environment has evolved over time.

“There’s a lot more paperwork now,” Andrew says.

But while processes may change, the core of the job remains the same—working as a team to deliver safer, more capable aircraft.

What Sets the Team Apart

For Andrew, it comes down to how the team approaches the work.

“Taking a complex machine through a major inspection and modification, and working closely together to ensure it leaves in a safer, more capable condition—that’s what sets this team apart.”

Lessons and Advice

One of the biggest lessons Andrew has learned throughout his career is the importance of continuous self-development.

"Keep improving."

For those starting out, his advice is simple and practical:

“Work towards your aircraft engineering licence.”

It’s a key step in building knowledge and credibility in the industry. From there, it can open doors you might not have considered at the start and lead to a wide range of pathways across aviation.

Support Behind the Scenes

Behind every long day in the hangar is a support system at home.

“I’d like to thank my wife and daughter for being there when I get home from work.”

It’s a simple sentiment, but one that reflects the reality behind the role—long hours, detailed work, and the importance of having people in your corner at the end of the day.