Several students from North Carolina won honors during an national aviation art competition hosted by the National Association of State Aviation Officials and the National Aeronautic Association for depicting how aviation helps save lives.
[Above image via NCDOT]
That national contest featured the art of students aged six to 17 who won state-level contests earlier this year. The theme of the 2026 contest, “Fly to Save Lives,” highlighted the role of aircraft in emergency response, medical transport, and disaster relief.
Three North Carolina students who won at the national level will now advance to the 2026 FAI Young Artists Contest, where their artwork will be judged by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale against artwork from other students from around the world later this year.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation said these aviation art contests are part of a global initiative designed to inspire youth to learn more about aviation and aerospace through artistic expression.
“These students captured the important role aviation plays in protecting and supporting communities,” said Nick Short, director of the NCDOT Division of Aviation, in a statement.
“Their artwork reflects both creativity and an understanding of how aviation serves as a lifeline during emergencies,” he added. “We’re proud to see North Carolina represented at the national level.”
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