This project is now in update mode. Check back regularly to see how things are progressing.
Manufacturing and Testing Update
Over the past several months, the DBF team at UNC Charlotte has been hard at work bringing our aircraft from design to reality. Manufacturing began over winter break, with team members dedicating their time—even while classes were out—to build and refine the airframe and components.
We’re excited to share that our maiden test flight took place on March 14, 2025. Since then, we’ve completed a total of 13 test flights, each one offering valuable data and insights. After every flight, we made targeted design adjustments to improve performance, reliability, and mission execution. These iterations have made our aircraft stronger and more competitive than ever.
With competition just around the corner, we’re wrapping up our final tests and making sure everything is in top shape. Thank you to everyone who has supported us—your contributions have helped us take this project from a concept to a flying machine.
Stay tuned for more updates as we head to the competition!
— The UNC Charlotte DBF Team ✈️
Project Updates
Hello Niner Nation! Thank you so much for supporting our campaign. Over the past month, the team has made significant progress on the project. Here are a few updates:
Proposal Results
The results are in...
Of the 159 universities from around the world, UNC Charlotte Design-Build-Fly ranked in Top 50 of proposals, qualifying to compete in the 2025 competition in Tuscon, Arizona!
Preliminary Design Review
The UNC Charlotte Design-Build-Fly team has completed their Preliminary Design Review presentation! Senior Design team members Kyle VanHorn, Dalton Canup, Grayson Taylor, Parker Jones, and Michael Rodriguez presented this year's preliminary design to faculty member Dr. Wolek. The team is continuing to refine the design based on feedback in preparation for the Senior Design Expo in December.
Main Aircraft Design
X-1 Autonomous Glider Design
CDR Presentation Complete!
The UNC Charlotte Design-Build-Fly team has completed their Conceptual Design Review presentation! Senior Design team members Kyle VanHorn, Dalton Canup, Grayson Taylor, Michael Rodriguez, and Parker Jones presented this year's conceptual design to faculty mentor Dr. Artur Wolek. Based on the feedback received, the team will continue to refine the design in preparation for the proposal deadline at the end of October. Thank you for your support and GO NINERS!
$49
Economy
Fly economy! A donation of $49 will help the DBF team purchase necessary components for our aircraft, such as 3D printer filament, MonoKote wrap, fasteners, and balsa wood.
$149
First Class
Fly First Class! A donation of $149 will help the DBF team purchase more expensive components for our aircraft, such as motors, servos, batteries, and other electronic equipment.
$490
Private
Fly Private! A donation of $490 will help the DBF team cover larger travel expenses on our trip to Tucson, AZ for the competition. This includes items such as lodging, car rentals, and airfare.
