Targeting stronger connections in airline networks
The main theme of the AI-Assisted Airline Optimization Competition is "Competitive End-to-End Network Structure Optimization." Within the scope of the competition, participants are expected to develop solutions aimed at improving connection quality and increasing the number of competitive O&D (Origin & Destination) routes through optimizations made on current flight schedules.
Taking existing flight networks and operational constraints into account, participants have been working on optimization models that enhance connection quality, provide airlines with a competitive advantage, and offer measurable performance improvements. In this regard, the competition supports the development of innovative approaches toward using AI and data-centric technologies more effectively in airline operations.
Students and graduates solve real-world industry problems
Open to undergraduate, graduate, and Ph.D. students as well as graduates, the competition features teams consisting of 2 to 4 members. While enabling young talents to apply their academic knowledge and technical capabilities to a real industry challenge, the competition also helps them gain hands-on experience in analytical thinking, data science, model development, and operations research.
The competition process comprises three stages: Preliminary Evaluation, Technical Solution Development & Submission, and Final Presentations. Among 358 teams that applied in 2026, 10 teams successfully passed the evaluation stages to advance to the finals. Members of the finalist teams represent 8 different provinces.
10 teams meet in the finals
The final round of the AI-Assisted Airline Optimization Competition will see AeroMind, AETHER, AGUtech, Büke, Eternal Flights, Kara Ambar, ODTÜ Ambale, Optimus, Rota-AI, and SkyMind competing against each other. The finalist teams will present their solutions and models to the jury during final presentations to contend for top honors in the ultimate stage of the competition.
Strengthening the role of AI and optimization in aviation
The AI-Assisted Airline Optimization Competition aims to address the complex planning and connection challenges of the airline industry through technology-driven solutions developed by youth. Through this competition, the goal is to bridge expertise in fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and operations research with airline operations, producing actionable solutions that can shape the future of the industry.
The winners of the competition will be announced following the final presentations on August 11 at the Turkish Technology Libadiye Campus.
