We are thrilled to share that our remarkable DBF team achieved 19th place out of 112 teams at the 2025 AIAA Design/Build/Fly competition, held from 10 April to 13 April 2025 at the Tucson International Modelplex Park Association (TIMPA) in Tucson, Arizona.
This year's mission challenged teams to design, build, and test a plane that releases a smaller glider. The glider had to fly by itself to a specific spot using GPS, without anyone controlling it. To achieve this, we had to solve problems like making sure the glider flies straight and steady, making the GPS navigation work properly, and making sure the glider could do all this completely on its own. In addition, the aircraft had to be strong enough to carry loads weighing several kilograms and withstand other forces, like the impact from landing, vibrations during flight, and strong winds.
Despite the fierce global competition, we are proud to announce that our team achieved 1st place in Asia, marking a significant milestone for our journey this year.
About AEOLUS:
AEOLUS is the official team representing PolyU at the renowned AIAA DBF Competition. Comprising passionate students from AAE, AEOLUS showcases the creativity, teamwork, and technical skills of PolyU’s next generation of aviation talent. The team is committed not only to designing, building, and piloting innovative remote-controlled aircraft, but also to fostering a strong spirit of collaboration, resilience, and personal growth among its members. Through hands-on experience and real-world challenges, AEOLUS cultivates critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills that prepare students to succeed in the ever-evolving aviation and aerospace industries. With each project, AEOLUS aims to inspire the future of aviation engineering in Hong Kong, empowering young minds to push beyond boundaries and embrace innovation.
About AIAA Design/Build/Fly Competition:
The AIAA Design/Build/Fly Competition, now in its 29th year, was established in 1996 by the AIAA to provide university students with real-world aircraft design experience. Participants design, fabricate, and demonstrate the flight capabilities of an unmanned, electric-powered, radio-controlled aircraft. The competition emphasizes balanced design, flight handling qualities, affordability, and high performance. Each year, new design requirements and performance objectives are introduced to encourage innovation and technological advancements. The competition offers students a valuable opportunity to apply their knowledge and contribute to the field of aviation.
