The Airport Cooperative Research Program (ACRP), a program of the Transportation Research Board (TRB) of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, is sponsoring a national competition for universities that engages students in addressing issues relating to airports and the National Airspace System. The Competition builds upon the former FAA Design Competition for Universities which has now become an ACRP program funded by the FAA. The Competition is managed for the ACRP by the Virginia Space Grant Consortium of Hampton, Va.
Students win cash prizes and the university receives special recognition. First place will receive $3000, second place will receive $2000, and third place will receive $1000. First place winners present their designs at a special ceremony at the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine in Washington, DC and at a relevant national conference with travel expenses covered.
The Competition challenges both individuals and teams of undergraduate and graduate students working under the guidance of a faculty advisor to address issues currently facing airports and the National Airspace System. The Competition offers open-ended, real-world issues in four broad challenge areas: Airport Operation and Maintenance; Runway Safety, Runway Incursions and Runway Excursions; Airport Environmental Interactions, and Airport Management and Planning. The challenges can be tackled by students from many STEM disciplines; business, computer science and psychology among others.
Notice of Intent (NOI) is strongly encouraged but not required. The NOI allows Competition
staff to facilitate connections with airport operators and industry experts. Spring semester NOI deadline is January 28, 2021. Winners will be announced in June 2021.