DARPA Lift Challenge & Flite Fest
Aug. 6–9, 2026
Thank You for Joining Us!
The DARPA Lift Challenge and Flite Fest have concluded at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.
Over seven days of competition, 61 teams completed thousands of test flights as they worked to push the limits of heavy-lift unmanned aviation. The challenge concluded with a new record: Team Avidrone achieved a payload-to-weight ratio of 3.84:1.
We extend our congratulations to Team Avidrone and our thanks to all of the competitors who brought their ideas, aircraft and ingenuity to Dayton. We also thank DARPA, Flite Fest organizers, volunteers and the many visitors who joined us throughout the week.
The event gave visitors an opportunity to see aviation research and experimentation in action while also exploring the history of flight preserved inside the Museum.
Alongside the Lift Challenge, Flite Fest brought the radio-control aviation community to Museum grounds for several days of flying, building and STEM activities.
Thank you to everyone who helped make the week possible.
Continue Exploring
Missed the event—or want to see more? Visit DARPA's Lift Challenge website for information about the competition and its competitors, and follow the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force for more events exploring aviation's history, technology and future.
Explore the DARPA Lift Challenge