Optimize aviation fuel? The Air Force wants your ideas

In partnership with AFWERX, Air Force Operational Energy has launched an Airmen Powered by Innovation Challenge to solicit ideas on how to optimize aviation fuel for the Air Force, enabling greater combat capability, range and more efficient operations. The challenge, which is open to Airmen of all ranks and occupations, is accepting submissions on a rolling basis. Each submission will be carefully reviewed by subject matter experts to determine the possibility of Air Force buy-in and implementation, based on associated costs, benefits, challenges and potential risks. After selecting an idea, Air Force Operational Energy will work with AFWERX to source funding and develop an execution plan. Airmen are also encouraged to vote for their favorite submission through the online portal.

Submissions can focus on a number of areas to optimize aviation fuel use including (but not limited to):

Energy and logistics risk mitigation

Drag reduction devices on aircraft

Lighter weight aircraft parts

Streamlined flight plans during training

21st century technologies and software

Engine sustainment processes

Optimized fuel loads

Efficient flight formations

Airmen education and training

To learn more about the challenge visit www.safie.hq.af.mil/APIChallenge or apply directly to the Ideascale website https://usaf.ideascalegov.com (CAC-enabled) by clicking on ‘Command and Wing’ and searching for the Operational Energy challenge. Users must set up an Ideascale account to participate.