County Airports Launches “Wings Over SLO CAL” Youth Art Contest for 2026 Calendar

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA — The County of San Luis Obispo Department of Airports is inviting local students to take flight with their imagination in the inaugural Wings Over SLO CAL 2026 calendar contest. Young artists are encouraged to create original drawings or paintings that highlight aviation and its connection to our region.

The contest opens August 20, 2025, and entries must be postmarked by October 20, 2025, to be considered. In-person submissions will also be accepted at the Girls in Aviation Day event at the Oceano Airport on September 20, 2025. The contest is open to all students in grades K-12 (public, private, or home-schooled). Selected artwork will be featured in the Airport’s 2026 Wings Over SLO CAL calendar.

“This contest is a wonderful way to celebrate both the creativity of our local youth and the limitless possibilities of aviation,” said Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg. “I’m thrilled to see how young minds envision Wings Over SLO CAL—and even more excited to encourage them to dream big, innovate, and maybe even spark a lifelong passion for aviation.”

Courtney Johnson, Director of Airports, shared, “At the Department of Airports, we believe in inspiring the next generation of pilots, engineers, drone operators, and innovators. The Wings Over SLO CAL calendar is more than art—it’s a platform for young people to share their ideas, stretch their imaginations, and see themselves as part of the future of aviation.”

For more information on contest rules, entry details, and how to submit your artwork, visit www.sloairport.com/contest.

# # #

ABOUT US

The SLO County Airport (SBP) is a vital transportation gateway serving California’s Central Coast region. With its modern facilities and convenient location, the airport offers a range of domestic flights, connecting passengers to major cities across the United States. SBP serves areas as far north as Southern Monterey County, San Luis Obispo County, and as far south as Northern Santa Barbara County. SBP is committed to providing safe, efficient, and customer-focused air travel services to its passengers while supporting the economic growth and development of the region. SBP is also home to full-service general aviation and corporate facilities. To stay informed please visit www.sloairport.com or get social with SBP on Facebook (www.facebook.com/SLOCountyAirport) or Instagram (@Sloairport).

The Oceano Airport (L52) is a cherished community airport serving California’s Central Coast. Located just steps from the Pacific Ocean, Oceano Airport offers a welcoming gateway for general aviation pilots, flight training, and recreational visitors alike. The airport provides easy access to the scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and vibrant communities of San Luis Obispo County. L52 is committed to supporting safe, efficient operations while fostering community engagement through educational programs, aviation events, and partnerships that inspire future generations of aviators. L52 serves as a reliever airport and hosts a variety of first responders. To learn more, visit www.oceanoairport.com or follow the on Facebook (www.facebook.com/OceanoAirport) and Instagram (@oceanoairport).

# # #