Carolynn Kim created this first-place winning entry in the 2026 Intermediate Division.The N.C. Department of Transportation's Division of Aviation hosts the North Carolina Aviation Art Contest each year to inspire and engage young people in aviation.
Entries for the 2027 North Carolina Aviation Art Contest must be received by Friday, Feb. 19, 2027.
The contest offers children ages 6-17 who live or attend school in North Carolina the chance to explore different aspects of aviation. The
North Carolina Airports Association sponsors the art contest each year.
2027 Aviation Art Contest Theme: ‘Forever First in Flight’
On Dec. 17, 1903, Wilbur and Orville Wright piloted the first sustained, powered and controlled flight for 12 seconds, traveling 120 feet in Kill Devil Hills, N.C. This milestone earned the state the title “
First in Flight.”
Since then, North Carolina has continued to pave the way for aviation innovation through the integration of electric aircraft, autonomous technology and unmanned aircraft systems (drones).
When you look to the future, what do you see? How do you imagine our skies will look as cutting-edge technology emerges? Let your creativity soar to the future of aviation and capture the next generation of flight through your art.
Contest Rules