Monterey Bay Drone, Automation, and Robotics Technology (DART) proudly congratulates UC Aerolink from UC Davis for being honored with the DART Community Integration Award as part of the 2025 CITRIS Aviation Prize competition.

The CITRIS Aviation Prize, hosted by the Center for Information Technology Research in the Interest of Society (CITRIS) and the Banatao Institute, showcases groundbreaking student-led innovations in advanced air mobility (AAM). Each year, teams from across the University of California system tackle the challenges of building safe, efficient, and equitable aviation solutions that can transform the future of transportation.

UC Aerolink stood out for their visionary approach to community-centered air mobility design. Their project demonstrated a keen understanding of how emerging aviation technologies can be harmoniously integrated into existing urban and rural landscapes. With a focus on engaging local stakeholders and designing with community benefit in mind, UC Aerolink set a new standard for thoughtful, inclusive innovation.

“At DART, we believe that the successful deployment of advanced air mobility technologies depends on how well they are embraced by the communities they serve,” said Josh Metz, Executive Director of Monterey Bay DART. “UC Aerolink’s work exemplifies the kind of creativity and civic-mindedness we aim to celebrate with the Community Integration Award.”

This year’s CITRIS Aviation Prize showcased an impressive array of concepts addressing autonomy, electrification, and equitable access in air transportation. The DART Community Integration Award, now in its second year, highlights the importance of designing aviation systems that not only push technological boundaries but also foster public trust and deliver tangible local benefits.

Congratulations again to UC Aerolink and all the teams who participated in the 2025 CITRIS Aviation Prize. Your work continues to inspire a future where aviation is more sustainable, accessible, and community-centered.