2026 Gateways to Blue Skies Competition

NASA's Gateways to Blue Skies (GBS) competition, administered by the National Institute of Aerospace on behalf of NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD), is designed to engage U.S.-based post-secondary students in tackling critical challenges in the aviation industry. The GBS competition serves as a platform for multidisciplinary student teams to propose forward-thinking, socially responsible innovations that align with NASA’s long-term goals. Each year, the competition introduces a new theme that reflects current priorities in aviation. In 2026, the theme is “RepAir: Advancing Aircraft Maintenance,” focusing on novel maintenance technologies and practices aimed at improving safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness within the commercial aviation sector. The 2026 competition centers on addressing pressing challenges in aircraft maintenance. These challenges arise from aging aircraft, increasing air travel and cargo demands, staffing shortages, and the need for regulatory compliance. Student teams are encouraged to envision innovative maintenance concepts and systems capable of implementation by 2035 or earlier. Proposed solutions should integrate advanced or emerging technologies—such as predictive maintenance systems, advanced diagnostics, automation, or 3D-printed replacement parts—that could enhance current maintenance practices. Emphasis is placed on novel applications of technology that could significantly impact efficiency, safety, or operational costs within the commercial passenger and cargo airline sectors. The competition is divided into two phases. Phase 1 requires student teams to submit a 5–7 page proposal along with a two-minute video summarizing their concept. The proposal must include a detailed assessment of the selected maintenance area, a clearly defined use case, a conceptualized solution, and a feasible deployment pathway by 2035. A visual quad chart and a graphical depiction of the concept are also required. Based on the quality and originality of these submissions, up to eight teams will be selected to advance to Phase 2. Selected teams will each receive a $9,000 award issued to their respective institutions. These finalists are expected to submit a full 8–10 page paper, infographic, and presentation for the GBS Forum held at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA, in May 2026. Eligibility for participation is limited to students from accredited U.S.-based post-secondary institutions, including community colleges, technical colleges, colleges, and universities. Each team must include at least one faculty advisor affiliated with a lead institution and a minimum of two U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident students. Teams may include up to six student members from any academic level and discipline. GBS prioritizes student-led initiatives, and the submission must be original and free of non-student-generated content. All entries must adhere to strict formatting guidelines, including a prohibition on generative AI content creation. Teams must also submit a signed Faculty Advisor Attestation and a completed Vendor W-9 form to be eligible for finalist consideration. The application process involves a series of deadlines and participation requirements. Teams were encouraged to submit a non-binding Notice of Intent (NOI) by November 4, 2025, to remain informed and receive access to Q&A sessions. The final deadline for submitting the proposal and video is February 16, 2026, with finalist notifications expected by March 13, 2026. If selected, finalist teams must submit their final paper and infographic by May 3, 2026, followed by their presentation materials by May 15, 2026. The GBS Forum, where finalists present their work, will take place May 18–19, 2026. Winning teams will have the opportunity to secure internships with NASA ARMD. Up to six internships will be awarded to students from the first-place team, subject to eligibility criteria including U.S. citizenship and a 3.0 GPA. These internships may be hosted at NASA centers such as Langley, Glenn, Ames, or Armstrong during the Spring or Summer of 2027. This prestigious opportunity underscores NASA's commitment to fostering student innovation while building a pipeline of talent for the future of aviation.

Clearly articulate operational context, implementation pathway, and feasibility. Avoid placeholder overuse.