Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) has released the theme of the 2026 Young Artists Contest, “Fly to Save Lives”.

The World Air Sports Federation encourages youngsters to explore not only the physical side of vital emergency air service missions, but also the positive impact that air sports have on mental wellbeing. From helping others to helping take care of your own mental health, taking to the sky has benefitted millions of people from all walks of life.

The contest will be sponsored at the state level, while the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) conducts the national portion of the contest in partnership with the National Aeronautic Association (NAA). The winning artwork from the U.S. is sent to be judged at the FAI headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Virginia has garnered a reputation over the years for having some of the best young artists in the world. Earlier this year, 15-year-old Lalitha Kuchipudi from Chantilly, VA was awarded first place in the “Senior” category of the International Aviation Art Contest. Kuchipudi was one of three Virginians to represent the United States on the international stage. Andrew Yang, 9, and Aspen Xing, 12, also received top honors at the national competition.

“A Virginian represents not just the best of our nation, but the entire world,” DOAV director Greg Campbell said. “Our motto that ’Virginia is for Flying Lovers,’ is quickly becoming a fact.”

The annual International Aviation Art Contest, which has been running since 1986, is open to youngsters between the ages of six and 18. FAI gold, silver and bronze medals and diplomas are presented to the top three artists in each of the age categories, which are as follows:

• Group I – Junior Category (Date of birth between 1 Jan 2016 and 31 Dec 2019)
• Group II – Intermediate Category (Date of birth between 1 Jan 2012 and 31 Dec 2015)
• Group III – Senior Category (Date of birth between 1 Jan 2008 and 31 Dec 2011)

Young artists must first enter a competition at the national level. The submission deadline for the 2026 contest run by NASAO has not yet been announced. Check for updates on the Virginia aviation art contest on the DOAV website here: https://doav.virginia.gov/va-art-contest/