AIAA is a national organization whose goal is to serve the technical needs and to promote the professional development of engineers in the aerospace field. AIAA has a membership of approximately 27,000 and celebrated its 60th anniversary in 1991. It publishes the topical magazine, Aerospace America, which is received by all members, and six journals in various technical areas. It also publishes a student journal which is received by all student members. Each year AIAA conducts numerous meetings and conferences throughout the country.
The student chapter at UB serves the interests of both undergraduate and graduate students of aerospace engineering. The student section runs a variety of activities including field trips, guest speakers, and design projects. Students also participate in many of the activities of the Niagara Frontier Section of the AIAA. Each year a meeting is held for all the student chapters in the northeast region and many of UB's students have participated in these meetings. Dues provide the students with all the privileges of the parent society.