AI-Powered Aviation Solutions Take Center Stage at Embry-Riddle Asia’s Innovation Hangar 2026 Competition

A team of students who pitched an artificial intelligence platform to reduce global airspace congestion has earned the top spot at the annual Innovation Hangar competition hosted by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's Asia Campus. 

The competition called on pre-university students to present innovative solutions to enhance the aviation and aerospace industry. Twenty teams entered the competition, and 8 teams were selected to present at the final event.  

The winning team, Aviaura, pitched NeuraFlight, an AI platform that integrates real-time satellite, aircraft and control center data to create a 4D map that optimizes routing and airport scheduling. The concept addresses flight delays and inefficiencies that result in excessive fuel burn and cost industry an estimated $30 billion annually. 

Their highly professional presentation and software idea earned the five-member team Embry-Riddle scholarships worth $50,000 SGD (about $40,000 USD). 

Reflecting on the intense nine-month journey, the Aviaura team shared a powerful message of encouragement to students considering participating in next year’s competition.  

"Don't be intimidated, enjoy the competition as much as you can," said team member Daniel Jerome D. Moujaes. “This will be a very big opportunity in the future." 

The second-place winner was team BumbleThree, which pitched a digital platform designed to streamline airport workflows and address sub-optimal profitability caused by low gate turnover rates. Team LUPAD-AI placed third with a camera-based system that uses computer vision and AI to track pilot fatigue.  

The finalists faced rigorous evaluations from a distinguished panel of industry leaders who represented the full breadth of the aerospace ecosystem. The panel included Dr. Pak Koh Keng, adjunct faculty and director of ECK; Faris Iskandar, co-founder of Aeroviation;Lynnette Tan, CEO and chairwoman of Space Faculty; and Leck Chet Lam, managing director of Experia Events. 

Upon the conclusion of the final round, the judges collectively praised the teams for their presentations and ingenuity.