The National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) is pleased to announce the host of

SAFECON 2026 will be the Quad Cities International Airport (KMLI) and Visit Quad Cities.

The event will take place May 18-23, 2026.

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The Safety and Flight Evaluation and Conference (SAFECON) brings the best of the best in collegiate

aviation to the national stage. 500+ aviators from 30 colleges will compete in ground knowledge,

simulator, and flying events, as well as vie for achievement, safety, and scholarship based awards.

Throughout the week, participants will network with aviation industry partners at booths, seminars, and

sponsored meal events. Teams will earn invitations this fall at one of nine regional SAFECONs.

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“NIFA is excited that Quad Cities will be hosting SAFECON 2026! Teams will enjoy a variety of venues

and Quad Cities is a spot that NIFA has never competed at before, which brings a heightened sense of

anticipation to next year's National Competition. We look forward to everything that the Quad Cities

community has to offer NIFA and our member schools.” - Taylor Newman, NIFA Executive Director

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