Edwards announces 2023 FAA Airport Design Challenge

Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) announced today that enrollment for the 2023 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Design Challenge (ADC) is now open to students in North Carolina’s 11th district.

The ADC is an eight-week interactive class available on Blackboard for students from kindergarten through 12th grade to learn about airports and safety measures involved with building airports and design replicas with Minecraft. Many schools already have Minecraft purchased as part of their technology packages but are not aware.

During this course, students will follow an organized lesson plan covering topics from airport layout, pavement, lighting, structures and innovative growth to better understand the rules and regulations surrounding airport design.

The course will culminate with the students working in groups or individually to recreate a virtual airport based on guidance from FAA aerospace and engineering experts using Minecraft. These virtual designs will have the opportunity to be judged during the annual championship held in October.

Edwards said, “The FAA Airport Design Challenge is a great opportunity for students in WNC to learn and collaborate in an innovative way. I’m looking forward to seeing how students apply their academic knowledge and skills to take on this unique challenge through hands-on experience and share their passion with others.”

While the course can be started at any time during the year, students must register their completed airport design by Aug. 31, 2023 to compete in the October 2023 championship. Registering after this date will enter the student into the October 2024 championship.

To register or for more information, visit faa.gov/go/adc.