Aviation Art Contest

Since 1989, the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) has sponsored the International Aviation Art Contest to challenge young people to illustrate the importance of aviation through art. TxDOT’s Aviation Division hosts the contest at the state level.

The 2026 Theme – “Fly to Save Lives”

For over a hundred years, people have dreamed of flying in the sky. What once seemed like magic is now a part of our everyday lives. Planes and helicopters help us travel far and fast, bringing people together from all over the world. They also help during emergencies, like delivering food, medicine, fighting wildfires and finding people who need help.

Flying isn’t just about helping others—it can also help you. When people do air sports like paragliding, ballooning, or flying drones, it helps them feel happy, confident, and strong. Being up in the sky makes people feel free, it helps them connect to nature, and exercises complete focus on one single task, all of which are great for their wellbeing. This year’s FAI Young Artists Contest theme is ‘Fly to Save Lives’. We want you to imagine how aviation and air sports can help save lives.

With your crayons, paint, or pencils, show us your ideas. How can flight make the world a safer and better place? The sky is not the limit—it’s where hope begins!

The International Aviation Art Contest brochure includes the Certificate of Authenticity which is required with all artwork submittals. Download the brochure.

DEADLINE Texas State contest: Friday, January 16, 2026 .

Return entries to:

Texas Department of Transportation
Becky Vick
Aviation Division
6230 E. Stassney Lane
Austin, Texas 78744

The state of Texas will be giving away additional prizes sponsored by:

• National Business
• Aviation Association, Inc.

The following awards are given out as a separate prize to coincide with the International Art Contest

Ages 14-17:

• 1^st~ $100 Gift Card
• 2^nd~$75 Gift Card
• 3^rd~ $50 Gift Card

Ages 10-13:

• 1^st~ $100 Gift Card
• 2^nd~$75 Gift Card
• 3^rd~ $50 Gift Card

Ages 6-9:

• 1^st~ $100 Gift Card
• 2^nd~$75 Gift Card
• 3^rd~ $50 Gift Card