The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois, hereinafter referred to as the Board, shall have power in its discretion to apply for and receive aid, in the form of money, land or equipment, from the United States for the acquisition, construction, maintenance or operation of airports, landing fields or any equipment or aids to aerial navigation whatsoever, for use in connection with the development and execution of its civilian or military educational programs at the University of Illinois; and in the execution of the powers herein granted and in order to accomplish the objects herein described, the Board shall have the power to enter into contracts, leases, trust agreements, operating trust agreements, trust indentures and all other engagements whatsoever with any person, corporation, governmental agency whatsoever, including the United States, which may be necessary in the judgment of the Board or required by the United States or any agency thereof, in order to apply for and obtain such aid, or to erect, operate or maintain any such airport or air field.