Design Build Fly

DBF is an international aircraft design competition hosted by the national AIAA chapter with Raytheon and Cessna as key sponsors and many other industry sponsors as well. The competition location alternates between Wichita, Kansas and Tucson, Arizona which means every other year we get to compete at home.

The competition is particularly unique because its rules change every year so, each year brings new design challenges for participants.

The aircraft are driven by electric propulsion and range in size depending on each team's design choices.

As described by the competition's name, we really do get exposure to the entire process of creating an airplane. We submit a proposal, design and simulate our aircraft, conduct flight tests, submit a technical report, and fly our final product at competition. 

AIAA did not work with DBF this year, but we have in past years and likely will continue next year.