Micro Air Vehicle Student Challenge 2016

The American Helicopter Society (AHS) International invites student teams to participate in the 4th Annual Micro Air Vehicle (MAV) Student Challenge. This electric-powered vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) MAV competition awards prizes for both “form” and “function” of the MAV. With respect to “form,” teams with unique, innovative and robust VTOL MAV design are awarded points. With respect to “function,” teams that demonstrate the best flight and autonomy capabilities are awarded. Overall, teams showing superior system integration of vehicle flight systems, sensors and remote-operation-station are considered for final awards. Teams can receive multiple awards based on these aspects.

The 4th Annual Micro Air Vehicle Student Challenge will be held at the 72nd AHS International Annual Forum and Technology Display at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, West Palm Beach, Florida on Monday afternoon, May 16, 2016. The competition is conducted by AHS International’s Unmanned VTOL Aircraft & Rotorcraft Committee. The committee hopes that the annual MAV Student Challenges will lead to advances in this area and help to develop increased expertise by students and universities. If you have any questions, check out the MAV Student Challenge Frequently Asked Questions or contact Jacquelyn Banas at jdbanas[at]gmail.com. 

A record 13 teams registered to compete in the 4th MAV Student Challenge — the most ever! This year's teams who were accepted into the final competition are the following:

Autonomous Category:  

• Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech Aerial Robotics)
• North Carolina A&T State University
• North Dakota State University (NDSU "Bizon")
• University of Maryland
• Vaughn College

Manual Category:

• Concordia University
• Georgia Institute of Technology (Unmanned Flying Club)

Come to the head-to-head competition on May 16 at Forum 72!

The prize awards are underwritten by Sikorsky, AHS International, and the Vertical Flight Foundation.