Aerospace Engineering: Next-Gen Flight

How will we fly in 2050?

Get ready for take-off into the exciting world of future air travel! Did you know that the U.S. has the world’s busiest and most complex airspace system? In this Challenge, you’ll take flight as you explore how flying can be made safer, more efficient, and more predictable, whether that’s cleaner engines, quieter planes, or new ways to board and fly. Perhaps solar-powered aircraft, flying cars, electric air taxis, or a foldable seat system are in our future. As you navigate the Challenge, you’ll come up with a product, business, or marketing campaign idea that addresses the question, How will we fly in 2050?

September 21st through October 25th, 2026.

Prizes:

🥇1st Place: $5,000

🥈2nd Place: $3,000

🥉3rd Place: $2,000

Please note: For team entries, prize amounts will be divided equally among team members.

Note: This Challenge is re-running from 2025. You can see past winners on our Challenge Winners page.