X-Design: demonstrator of the future
DLR Design Challenge 2026
Help us take the next step in aviation. Develop an innovative, feasible concept for a flying testbed to demonstrate future aviation technologies!
DLR Design Challenge
First place in the DLR Design Challenge 2025: RWTH Aachen's ASCLERA
ASCLERA is a medical evacuation aircraft and air ambulance that can transport up to 15 patients over a distance of 2500 kilometres. Its design is based on a powerful twin-engine turboprop aircraft featuring modern landing flaps and flight control systems for smooth and safe operation, even on short, high-altitude runways. Its modular cabin can be quickly reconfigured, with an elliptical fuselage offering extra space. Double doors and a rail-based loading system allow for swift boarding and the flexible transportation of patients with different medical needs.
Image: 1/11, Credit:
RWTH Aachen/ASCLERA
First place in the DLR Design Challenge 2025: FH Aachen's AETHER
AETHER is a versatile twin-engine turboprop rescue aircraft for transporting up to 19 patients. The cabin layout is highly flexible, featuring a modifiable design with quick-change rails and drop-pin seat rail adapters that allow for speedy reconfiguration to suit different mission requirements. A large rear door makes it possible to load patients quickly and efficiently, significantly reducing waiting times in emergency situations. Boasting a simple and reliable twin-engine propulsion system, AETHER flies on sustainable aviation fuel.
Image: 2/11, Credit:
FH Aachen/AETHER
'HELESA' of the University of Stuttgart
An innovative concept for a supersonic aircraft – an environmental successor to Concorde as it were – was presented by a team from the University of Stuttgart and awarded third place. The concept 'HELESA' proposes a long-stretched aircraft with distinctive variable forward swept wings.
Image: 11/11, Credit:
Universität Stuttgart
Competition outline | |
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Registration phase | Registration for the DLR Design Challenge takes place via the relevant department at each university. Interested students can sign up individually or as an already formed team, usually up to two weeks* before the kick-off event, via their department. |
Kick-off event | The opening event takes place in March* of the respective year at a DLR site. In addition to general information about the Design Challenge and a detailed thematic introduction by experts in aeronautics research, the event is an opportunity to ask questions, discuss specialist topics and network. |
Project work | Development of aircraft designs, including the preparation of reports, renderings, videos and presentations, takes place over several months. During this period, teams are mentored by DLR experts. The project work phase closes with submission of the reports. |
Assessment of submissions | Concepts are assessed by a panel of DLR experts based on the documentation submitted. This panel comprises the Divisional Board Member for Aeronautics and relevant institute directors, based on the submissions. |
Closing event | Teams present their concepts at a closing event held in August* at a DLR site, which is rounded off by a site tour and networking opportunities. The event concludes with the panel's final assessment of the designs and an award ceremony. |
Presentation of results | Winning teams get the opportunity to present their aircraft design concepts at prestigious aeronautics conferences. |
