AIAA Design/Build/Fly at UC Irvine - Fall 2026
Description
About Us
Design/Build/Fly at UC Irvine is a student-led engineering design team that provides a robust hands-on learning experience for students looking to learn more about aircraft design. Each year, the team participates in the international AIAA Design/Build/Fly competition, where members develop an RC aircraft capable of meeting specific mission criteria established in a completely new set of rules. Competition themes vary, focusing on real-world engineering challenges such as commercial flight, military testing or medical deliveries.
Our team presents our project at the 2026 UC Irvine Samueli School of Engineering Annual Design Review, sharing our work with fellow peers, faculty and industry professionals.
The Competition
Preparation for the the international AIAA Design/Build/Fly competition 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. In late October, teams submit a proposal detailing a conceptual design. Soon after, manufacturing and testing takes place to refine the prototype and optimize performance. The final design is documented in a comprehensive technical report submitted in February, leading up to the international competition in Tucson, Arizona 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.
Team leads making final adjustments to the aircraft before performing at the 2026 AIAA Annual Design/Build/Fly Competition in Wichita, Kansas.
Why Your Support Matters
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 directly fund quality parts and tools that reflect industry standards, bringing the team one step closer to being a top contender in competition. Beyond just building a competitive aircraft, your support 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 gift fuels our mission, helping inspire the next generation of engineers through an invaluable experience and provides members with the tools they need to make a difference. Thank you!
AIAA Design/Build/Fly at UC Irvine welcomes high school seniors to our lab for a behind-the-scenes tour, introducing them to the exciting possibilities of mechanical and aerospace engineering.
Connect With Us
Check out our website, follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn or reach out to us directly by emailing our Project Manager at khoangc@uci.edu.
$5
Ground Crew
Every donation counts! Your support keeps us fueled and ready for takeoff, bringing us one step closer to our goals.
$10
Navigator
Lead the way! Your generosity helps cover the cost of basic material and lifts the team off the ground.
$25
Co-Pilot
Let’s go for a ride! Your donation provides more tools, materials and hands-on opportunities for students to innovate and make a difference.
$100
Ace
All clear for takeoff! Your contribution helps fund major components including motors, batteries and other critical parts that power our aircraft.
$250
Flight Commander
Clear skies ahead! Your gift helps us afford project necessities such as advanced avionics, flight-testing gear and precision manufacturing tools, bridging the gap between our initial prototyping and competition-ready performance. With your support, we will also be in a better position to bring more members to competition and become fully equipped for success in the skies!
$500
Legend
Making history! Your incredible generosity takes our ambition to new heights. This level of support expands the scope of what we can achieve and puts us in contention for a top spot at the competition, helping us create an impactful, self-sustaining program for future generations of engineers to come.
