RALEIGH – The N.C. Department of Transportation's Division of Aviation is once again calling on young artists to showcase their creativity in the 2026 North Carolina Aviation Art Contest.
The annual competition, open to students across the state, gives participants the chance to explore the world of flight through art. This year's theme, “Fly to Save Lives," challenges students to illustrate how aviation and air sports can help people in need, from delivering supplies to supporting rescue missions.
“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."
North Carolina students born between Jan. 1, 2008, and Dec. 31, 2019, are eligible to submit entries in one of three age groups:
- Junior (ages 6–9)
- Intermediate (ages 10–13)
- Senior (ages 14–17)
Cash prizes, provided by the North Carolina Airports Association, will be awarded to the top three students in each age group and their schools.
Entries for North Carolina's contest must be received by Jan. 16, 2026.
The artwork of the three North Carolina winners in each age group will advance to the national competition, hosted by the National Association of State Aviation Officials. National winners then move on to the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale's international contest in Switzerland.
For eligibility details, submission forms and more, visit the NCDOT Aviation Art Contest page.
Questions? Contact North Carolina's contest coordinator, Haven Bailey, at ext-hrbailey1@ncdot.gov or 919-814-0550.