Info & Resources
Rules, FAQs, and useful links
Competition Rules
Aircraft Requirements
- Maximum weight: 55 lbs (excluding payload)
- Vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) required
- Must be heavier-than-air (no buoyant lift gases)
- No launch stands, tethers, or external assistance
- Remote Identification (RID) compliant
- Self-sufficient power source
Payload Rules
- Minimum qualifying payload: 110 lbs
- Standard cast iron Olympic weight plates provided by DARPA
- Largest plate combinations must be used
- All plates co-located at single point on aircraft
- Plates cannot be modified
Flight Course
- 5-nautical-mile circuit course flown in loops
- First 4 miles with payload, final mile without
- Cruising altitude: 250 ft (±50 ft margin)
- Maximum flight duration: 30 minutes per attempt
- Payload must be controlled release (not airdropped)
- Land within designated 5-foot-radius circle
Safety & Operations
- Visual line-of-sight required at all times
- FAA Part 107 pilot certification required
- Kill switch required and accessible
- No flights in rain or winds exceeding 25 knots
- Emergency procedures must be documented
- 24-hour protest window after alleged violations
Prize Structure
Objective — Overall Ratio
1st Place
$2.5M
2nd Place
$1.5M
3rd Place
$1.0M
Subjective — $500K each
Revolutionary Aero Design, Revolutionary Powertrain Design, Most Promising
Frequently Asked Questions
Useful Links
DARPA Lift Challenge HomeOfficial RulesTeam Application PortalContributor Portal (DARPAConnect)Special Notice (SAM.gov)
Questions? Contact the Tactical Technology Office (TTO)
Program Manager: Phillip “Donna” Smith