The American Alliance of Museums (AAM) is a non-profit organization that acknowledges over 1,000 museums across the United States as institutions upholding the industry’s highest standards and best practices.

In 1986, the San Diego Air & Space Museum became the first air and space-themed museum accredited by the AAM and has maintained its accreditation status ever since.

About every ten years, the San Diego Air & Space Museum undergoes a rigorous reaccreditation process that requires a self-study of its institution’s operations and impact on the community, a review of policies across multiple departments, and a site visit conducted by peers within the industry.

The Museum’s last accreditation process was completed in 2009, during which it was given a 15-year certification until the next evaluation due to its longstanding status with AAM.  This year, the Museum will review and update all of its policies and procedures to ensure compliance with national standards for ethical and legal practices.

Accreditation status is the highest honor a museum in the United States can achieve. It demonstrates a museum’s commitment to excellence in public service and responsible collections stewardship.

The San Diego Air & Space Museum is due for reaccreditation at the end of 2024.