Unveiling the Victory: AERONYX Dominates IMAC Gulf Cup 2026

In a stunning display of precision engineering and aerobatic mastery, Khalifa University's student team AERONYX clinched first place at the Al Ain IMAC Gulf Cup Open International 2026. Held from February 6 to 8 in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, this prestigious event drew 86 pilots from 26 countries, showcasing the best in radio-controlled (RC) aerobatics. The competition, organized by IMAC UAE—a chapter of the International Miniature Aerobatic Club (IMAC)—tested participants across three core areas: Known Flights with predefined 2026 IMAC aerobatic sequences, Unknown Flights featuring sequences revealed only the night before, and Free Style Flights where pilots crafted four-minute routines synchronized to music. AERONYX's triumph, marked by a AED 60,000 cash prize, underscored their superior design, execution, and adaptability against over 20 university and professional teams.

This victory not only highlights individual talent but also reflects the robust ecosystem of higher education in the UAE, where universities like Khalifa prioritize hands-on innovation to prepare students for the booming aerospace sector.

Meet the Minds of AERONYX: Student Innovators from Khalifa University

Team AERONYX comprises four dedicated Aerospace Engineering undergraduates from Khalifa University: Hamad Almaeeni as team leader, Mohammad Alhashmi, Bashayer Alhammadi, and Alyazia Alkhemeiri. Guided by Associate Professor Dr. Rafic Ajaj, a renowned expert in aerospace structures and morphing aircraft technologies, the quartet transformed theoretical knowledge into a world-class performer.

Dr. Ajaj's mentorship, drawing from his extensive research at Khalifa University and prior roles at institutions like the University of Southampton, provided critical insights into aircraft design optimization. The students, immersed in KU's state-of-the-art facilities—including the Aircraft Design Laboratory and Flight Dynamics & Simulation Lab—honed their skills through rigorous prototyping and testing. Their collaborative spirit exemplifies how UAE higher education fosters teamwork, essential for real-world engineering challenges.

The Raven Aircraft: A Student-Built Marvel of Engineering

At the heart of AERONYX's success is the 'Raven' RC aircraft, entirely designed, manufactured, and tested by the students. This lightweight, high-maneuverability model excelled in executing complex aerobatic maneuvers, outperforming competitors in stability, speed, and precision. Raven's prior outing at the 2025 AIAA Design/Build/Fly (DBF) competition in Tucson, Arizona—where it secured 37th place out of 112 international teams—served as invaluable groundwork, allowing refinements for the IMAC challenges.

The design process involved step-by-step iterations: conceptual sketching using CAD software, wind tunnel simulations in KU's advanced labs, material selection for durability under extreme G-forces, and iterative flight testing. This hands-on approach mirrors industry practices at UAE giants like Strata Manufacturing and Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Investments (ADASI), bridging academia and aerospace careers.

• Aerodynamic Optimization: Streamlined wings for superior roll rates and snap maneuvers.
• Control Systems: Custom servos ensuring precise response to IMAC sequences.
• Lightweight Construction: Composite materials reducing weight while enhancing strength.

For students eyeing higher ed jobs in aerospace, Raven exemplifies the portfolio-building potential of such projects.

Behind the Scenes: Preparation and Overcoming Challenges

Preparing for IMAC Gulf Cup demanded months of intense effort. The team balanced coursework with late-night fabrication sessions, simulating Unknown Flights under time pressure to mimic competition stress. Challenges included material sourcing amid supply chain issues and fine-tuning Raven for Al Ain's desert winds, which demand exceptional stability.

Dr. Ajaj emphasized resilience: “This accomplishment reflects Khalifa University students’ strong commitment to innovation and their ability to excel in highly competitive engineering environments.” KU's Co-operative Education (CO-OP) program, mandating two 26-week paid internships starting 2025-26, equipped them with industry insights from partners like Boeing and Airbus.

Khalifa University's Aerospace Excellence in UAE Higher Education

Khalifa University, ranked 177th globally in QS World University Rankings 2026 and top in UAE for eight years, leads in aerospace education. The BSc and MSc in Aerospace Engineering programs emphasize aircraft design, space missions, and propulsion, supported by 105 specialized labs across its 135,000 sqm main campus.

With over 2,200 undergrads in engineering, KU's KU AIAA student chapter connects learners to global networks, fostering competitions like AERONYX's win. In UAE's higher ed landscape, KU stands out alongside UAEU and AUS, but its research-intensive focus—14 centers, including space tech—positions graduates for roles in the nation's AED 100+ billion aerospace market by 2030.

Explore UAE university opportunities or career advice for aspiring engineers.

UAE Aerospace Boom: Fueling Student Success Stories

The UAE's aerospace sector, valued at USD 4.5 billion in 2025 and projected to grow 8% annually, demands skilled talent. Initiatives like the UAE Space Agency and Mars Hope Probe create pathways for KU grads.UAE Government Portal KU's FALCON program advances sustainable aviation, aligning student projects with national visions like Net Zero 2050.

AERONYX's win inspires amid rising competitions: Emirates Aviation University's Water Rocket 2026 and UAEU's AUSUIC UAV event highlight inter-university rivalry.

Previous Triumphs: AERONYX's Track Record

Beyond IMAC, AERONYX shone at AIAA DBF 2025, navigating mission tasks flawlessly. KU teams consistently podium in regional events, with alumni securing roles at Etihad Engineering and Baykar Technologies.

• AIAA DBF 2025: 37/112 global ranking
• RoboCup Asia-Pacific: KU wins in related leagues
• Internal KU design challenges: Multiple awards

Stakeholder Perspectives: Pride and Future Outlook

IMAC UAE organizers praised the event's scale, while peers noted AERONYX's edge in innovation. Dr. Ajaj envisions scaling Raven for advanced autonomy. For UAE higher ed, this signals talent pipelines for 20,000 new jobs by 2030.

KU Aerospace Dept

Implications for UAE Higher Education and Careers

Such victories elevate UAE universities globally, attracting international students and funding. AERONYX members eye research assistant jobs or postdoc positions. KU's CO-OP ensures 100% employability, with grads earning AED 15,000+ starting salaries.

Check rate my professor for KU faculty insights or higher ed career advice.

Photo by mohamad azaam on Unsplash

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum in Aerospace Innovation

AERONYX plans enhancements for 2027 Worlds, targeting AI integration. UAE's vision—Gulf as aviation hub—relies on such talent. Aspiring students, join KU's programs and compete; opportunities abound in higher ed jobs, university jobs, and lecturer paths. This win cements Khalifa University's role in shaping UAE's aerospace future.