FAQ

AIAA AVIATION Forum is the only aviation event that covers the entire integrated spectrum of aviation business, research, development, and technology. The weeklong program features discussions with respected aviation leaders – providing a single, structured gathering to help attendees navigate the challenges and opportunities affecting the direction of global aviation policy, research and development, technological proliferation, environmental issues, and emerging markets.

Attendees gain direct access to industry experts, groundbreaking research, networking opportunities, and the latest advances in aviation technology. The forum also offers robust professional development experiences, from strengthening technical knowledge to engaging in immersive, hands-on sessions, in-person courses, and workshops.

Check out the Reasons to Attend page for more key highlights of attendance.

AIAA AVIATION Forum is designed for anyone working in – or aspiring to work in – the aerospace industry, including:

• Aerospace engineers, researchers, and scientists looking to present or explore cutting-edge developments.
• Aviation industry professionals and executives seeking insights, networking, and collaboration opportunities.
• Academics and educators interested in research exchange and student engagement.
• Students and early-career professionals hoping to build connections and gain exposure to industry trends.
• Government, military, and policy leaders shaping the future of aerospace.
• Corporate partners, sponsors, and exhibitors showcasing technologies and solutions.
• Members of the global aviation and aerospace community invested in the future of flight.

If you’re committed to advancing aerospace innovation, this is the event you won’t want to miss. 

The forum program is built with the combined expertise of AIAA’s technical community and industry thought leaders. The structure and experience itself are being crafted with the support of world-renowned advisors in the aviation industry.

Check out the Guiding Coalition and Forum Technical Chairs for 2026 and get excited for the sessions these folks are organizing for this year.

AIAA AVIATION’s program offers a variety of content in six tailored formats. Make the most of your time at the forum by understanding what each session type offers.

• Plenary: A keynote session that kicks off the day at AIAA AVIATION Forum.
• Forum 360: A high-level panel session that tackles the most pressing topics in aerospace.
• Technical Session: A series of paper or oral-only technical presentations with Q&A.
• Technical Panels: An in-depth panel session that focuses on a specific technical topic.
• Technical Lectures: A session with one or two invited subject matter experts focusing on a technical topic.
• Technical Workshops: A longer session that offers a deep dive into a technical topic, often in a collaborative format.

Explore the full 2026 program here.

Registration will open 10 February 2026.

Early bird rates expire at 11:59 PM ET on 11 May 2026.

Registration will remain open beyond the early bird deadline through the duration of the event. There will be onsite registration available.

For more information, please visit the Registration page.

Yes, an author from a submitted manuscript will be expected to register and participate during their scheduled technical session. Should an author be unable to participate during the designated events for technical paper presenters, the manuscript will be withdrawn from the proceedings.

Full-forum registrants will have access to the conference proceedings. All other registration types (student and one day) do not include access to the proceedings (publications), but there is an option to purchase proceedings separately.

We do offer a discount for AIAA members as well as additional discounts for different types of membership. Details can be found on the Registration page.

This year’s forum will take place in person 8–12 June 2026 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego, CA.

Visit the Hotel and Travel Page for more details.

Yes – you can view our Tips for Travel Approval page here or download a template Request Letter here.

Yes – this forum is open to anyone in the global aviation community. International attendees, can find the AIAA Visa Letter Request form at Visa Invitation Letter Request Form | AIAA.

Yes! The AIAA Events App is the official app of AIAA AVIATION Forum. The platform will allow you to easily access the program, speakers, event schedule, exhibitors, and technical paper abstracts. In-app features allow you to:

• Create your personalized on-site schedule
• Bookmark sessions and speakers
• Sync your planner (desktop schedule) to your mobile device
• Network with other attendees (login required for all parties)
• Take notes on sessions you attend
• Access the final program, technical sessions matrix, and committee meeting schedule

AIAA Membership/Login Issues
Contact Customer Service 

Technical Paper Presenters—Change Authors, Manuscript Information
Contact Revisions

Technical Paper Questions
Contact Technical Paper Support 

Withdraw a Submission
Contact Submission Withdrawals 

AIAA Proceedings Access Issues
Contact ARC Support 

Media Registration
Contact Rebecca Gray, Director of Communications, AIAA

Sponsorship/Exposition
Contact Paul doCarmo, Operations Manager, Revenue and Brand Management, AIAA

To Book a Meeting Room
Contact Amy Tignanelli, Event Manager, AIAA

Attendees having trouble registering online should contact Sandra Turner, Manager, Registration Product Operations, AIAA.

Contact Paul doCarmo, Operations Manager, Revenue and Brand Management, AIAA.

Other questions: contact AIAA Customer Service.

Contact Customer Service.