Three brothers from Tampa Bay recently achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Design Challenge. Shaan (16), Sahil (15), and Krishiv Patel (13) took their creative talents to Tampa International Airport (TPA) on January 10, where they had the opportunity to meet the airport’s engineering professionals and present their award-winning design.
During their visit, the brothers enjoyed an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of TPA, including the Airport Operations Center, the SkyCenter One office, the airfield, and the baggage handling system. For the passionate young aviation enthusiasts, this visit represented the realization of a long-held dream.
“I grew up loving to create model airports and collecting model planes,” Shaan Patel expressed. “Now, planes are an integral part of my life, and visiting TPA after all our hard work is simply amazing.”
The Airport Design Challenge invites students from kindergarten through 12th grade to design virtual airports using Minecraft, guided by advice from FAA aerospace and engineering experts. The competition is categorized by grades, with the Shahs clinching first place in the Primary Airport design category for 7th to 12th graders, calling themselves the Aviator Bros.
Participants in this enriching program engage with aviation professionals, collaborate with other aspiring designers, and gain insights into the aviation industry. While they can choose a local airport to streamline learning about FAA specifications, they aren’t obliged to do so. The program offers instructional modules covering vital topics like airport layout, lighting, pavement, structures, and innovative growth ideas.
The Patel brothers opted for Tampa International Airport as their project foundation, enhancing their design by incorporating distinctive features such as unique dining options, a garden, an observation deck on the Economy Parking Garage, and convenient access to a cargo port with a delivery drone service.
This story highlights the creativity and passion of young minds in aviation, showcasing how practical learning experiences can inspire future innovators. The Patel brothers serve as a reminder of the impact of educational programs in fostering enthusiasm for engineering and aviation among youth.