Three brothers from Tampa Bay, Shaan (16), Sahil (15), and Krishiv Patel (13), recently celebrated their victory in the FAA’s Airport Design Challenge by visiting Tampa International Airport (TPA). They met with the Airport Planning and Development team to present their winning design, which secured first place in the Primary Airport category for grades 7-12.
The brothers’ visit on January 10 included a behind-the-scenes tour of TPA, where they explored the Airport Operations Center, SkyCenter One, the airfield, and the baggage handling system. This experience was a dream come true for the aviation enthusiasts, who have fostered a passion for aviation from a young age.
Growing up, Shaan Patel expressed how he enjoyed constructing model airports and collecting model planes, stating, “Now planes have become a part of me, and I love it so much. Being able to come to TPA and see all this after all our effort is fantastic.”
The Airport Design Challenge invites students from Kindergarten through 12th grade to design virtual airports in Minecraft, drawing on insights from FAA aerospace and engineering experts. Participants are divided into categories based on their grade levels, and the Patels, calling their team the Aviator Bros, focused on enhancing the TPA experience in their design.
To make their virtual airport stand out, the Patel brothers incorporated innovative elements such as unique dining options, a garden and observation deck atop the Economy Parking Garage, and improved access to a cargo port specifically designed for delivery drones.
Students involved in the program have the opportunity to connect with aviation professionals, collaborate with fellow designers, and gain valuable insights into the aviation industry. Through this challenge, students are not only encouraged to explore local airports but also engage with instructional modules covering various aspects of airport design, including layout, pavement, lighting, and structural ideas for future development.
The Patel brothers’ accomplishment exemplifies the exciting possibilities within aviation and technology. Their passion and creativity not only led them to win the competition but also opened doors for them to connect with professionals in the field, potentially inspiring a future career in aviation or engineering. This story is a testament to the importance of nurturing interests in STEM fields, especially for young, aspiring designers and engineers.