UC Irvine Design/Build/Fly 2025-2026

About Us

Design/Build/Fly at UCI is a student engineering design team that provides a robust hands-on learning experience for students looking to learn more about aircraft design. Participating in the international AIAA Design/Build/Fly competition, the team develops an RC aircraft capable of meeting specific mission criteria established in a completely new set of rules each year. The theme varies, focusing on topics such as commercial flight, military testing, or medical deliveries.

Preparation begins in August when the rules are released, about a month before the academic year begins. During this time, members perform many initial calculations and trade studies to determine an optimal aircraft design. Teams submit a proposal detailing a conceptual design in late October, after which most major building and testing takes place. The final design is documented in a comprehensive report submitted in February, followed by the competition in Wichita, Kansas in April.

The project brings together undergraduate students of all years, providing a unique learning experience for everyone involved. Members work across a broad range of tasks, from learning to 3D-print and use CAD software to simulating aircraft performance and sizing key parameters. The hands-on skills members gain lays the groundwork for success in their careers.

Why Donate?

Design/Build/Fly is not just about building a plane. For many students, the project is one of very few opportunities to gain hands-on experience and apply textbook knowledge in a practical setting. Members develop invaluable technical and interpersonal skills that are highly sought after in the workplace and establish lasting connections with peers, advisors, and industry professionals.

Donations primarily help the team purchase quality parts and tools that reflect industry standards. Beyond just building a competitive aircraft, this ensures that students are equipped with the most up-to-date knowledge of the world of engineering and well-prepared for their future careers. Additional funding helps the team cover costs associated with travel to the competition site, where members have an opportunity to see the aircraft in flight, share expertise with other teams, and network with company representatives and sponsors.

Every donation helps inspire the next generation of engineers through an invaluable experience and provide members with the tools they need to make a difference. For more information about the project, please feel free to contact us at dbfatuci@gmail.com.