A team of engineering students from the University of California, Irvine, has been awarded NASA's Blue Skies Award for their innovative project, Air SHIELD, during the Gateway to Blue Skies Competition. This system addresses the aviation industry's challenges by enabling continuous monitoring of aircraft structures without the need for disassembly. The team, consisting of aerospace engineering students, presented their concept to industry professionals and NASA researchers, earning praise for its innovation. Air SHIELD integrates advanced sensing technology and machine learning, potentially saving $444,932 over an aircraft's lifespan and adding 570 hours of flying time. The project received the Best Infographic Award, highlighting the team's ability to simplify complex ideas. Faculty adviser Jacqueline Huynh praised the team's extensive research and design efforts, which could significantly reduce maintenance costs and enhance flight safety. The students plan to continue their research in the UCI Aircraft Systems Laboratory, focusing on developing solutions for future aircraft systems.