The 2026-2027 'Fueling Flight Design Challenge: New Energy Systems' focuses on the introduction of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as an emerging aircraft fuel. Participants study LNG’s properties, benefits, and necessary modifications to aircraft designs and airport facilities, addressing the evolving demands of the National Airspace System with increasing flights and fuel options.
By encouraging students to think beyond traditional tube-and-wing aircraft and consider impacts on both vehicles and infrastructure, NASA aims to foster innovation in flight affordability, safety, and environmental sustainability. The challenge promotes understanding of how new energy systems can transform aviation technology and operations.
Source & further reading
2026-2027 DWU: High School Engineering Challenge ↗Source published 2026-09-25. This report was prepared with AI assistance from the linked primary-source material. Claims and limitations should be checked against the original announcement or research.