NASA has selected eight university student teams as finalists in the 2026 Gateways to Blue Skies Competition, an initiative aimed at finding innovative solutions to improve aircraft maintenance in the commercial aviation sector.
The competition, titled RepAir: Advancing Aircraft Maintenance, focuses on tackling key challenges faced by the aviation industry, including the shortage of skilled maintenance workers and the growing complexity of modern aircraft systems.
Competition encourages practical aviation solutions
The challenge invites postsecondary student teams to develop concepts that could enhance efficiency, safety, and cost management in aircraft maintenance operations.
According to NASA officials, the goal is to generate ideas that could have real-world impact by 2035, while also inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals.
Steven Holz, associate project manager for NASA’s University Innovation Project and co-chair of the judging panel, said the competition provides students with an opportunity to address real operational challenges.
“Through this competition, students will learn about aviation maintenance and be empowered to help shape its future,” he said.
Finalists to receive funding and present innovations
The eight finalist teams were selected after NASA reviewed detailed proposals and concept videos submitted by participants.
Each finalist team will receive $9,000 in funding and move forward to the second phase of the competition.
Phase 2 will include submission of a final research paper, infographic and presentation during the Gateways to Blue Skies Forum, scheduled for May 18, 2026, at NASA Langley Research Center.
The forum will also be livestreamed globally.
Projects focus on emerging aviation technologies
The selected projects feature innovative approaches including robotic inspection systems, augmented reality tools for mechanics, sensor networks and machine learning solutions aimed at improving aircraft safety and maintenance efficiency.
Teams from several universities across the United States—including Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Michigan State University, South Dakota State University and the University of California, Irvine—are among the finalists.
Members of the winning team who meet eligibility requirements may also receive internship opportunities with NASA’s aeronautics programmes.
The Gateways to Blue Skies Challenge is organised under NASA’s Transformative Aeronautics Concepts Program, which promotes innovation in aviation technology and workforce development.