RALEIGH, N.C. — The North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation has launched its annual call for submissions to the 2026 North Carolina Aviation Art Contest, inviting student artists statewide to explore the intersection of creativity and flight.
The competition, which has become a celebrated tradition for young artists across North Carolina, challenges participants to interpret this year’s theme: “Fly to Save Lives.” Students are encouraged to illustrate the life-saving potential of aviation and air sports, including emergency supply deliveries, medical evacuations, and rescue operations.
“We look forward to this contest every year,” said Nick Short, director of the NCDOT Division of Aviation. “It’s always inspiring to see the creativity of students and how they imagine the many ways aviation can make a difference.”
Competition Details
The contest is open to North Carolina students born between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2019, with participants competing in three age categories:
- Junior Division (ages 6–9)
- Intermediate Division (ages 10–13)
- Senior Division (ages 14–17)
Cash prizes, generously provided by the North Carolina Airports Association, will be awarded to the top three finalists in each age group, with both students and their schools receiving recognition for their achievements.
Path to International Recognition
Winners will have the opportunity to advance through multiple levels of competition. The top three entries from each North Carolina age group will proceed to the national competition hosted by the National Association of State Aviation Officials. National winners then advance to the prestigious international contest organized by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale in Switzerland.
Submission Information
The deadline for North Carolina entries is January 16, 2026. Students and educators can find complete eligibility requirements, submission forms, and additional contest information on the NCDOT Aviation Art Contest webpage.
For questions about the competition, participants may contact North Carolina’s contest coordinator, Haven Bailey, at [email protected] or 919-814-0550.
The annual contest continues to serve as a platform for young artists to explore aviation themes while potentially gaining recognition on national and international stages.
