- American celebrates 100 years of connecting people to places that matter with customer activations planned across 11 locations systemwide.
- With a century of innovation and legacy as the foundation, the airline is focused on the future.
On April 15, 1926, a DH-4 biplane took off from Chicago bound for St. Louis. This flight, carrying only mail, operated under Robertson Aircraft Corporation. Driven by the possibilities aviation could unlock for the country and the world, this flight set into motion the creation of one of the world’s most iconic airlines: American Airlines.
One hundred years later, American is commemorating this milestone anniversary in the skies with a similar excitement and passion for all that lies ahead. Hear from Robert Isom, American’s CEO, about what this milestone means for American.
Celebrating our customers and team members
American’s story is a result of the dedication of our customers and team members. From the first passenger flights on the Douglas DC-3 between Chicago and New York, to the dawn of the Jet Age with the introduction of the Boeing 707, the establishment of major hub-and-spoke carriers, and more, customers have had choices when they fly. Taken together, the moments where travelers chose American were instrumental in crafting the airline’s century of progress, innovation and global reach.
This century of achievement is also the result of the team members who drove our progress and success through every era of change. The past 100 years have included every kind of experience — spanning from immense challenges to great successes — and at every moment, American’s team members rose to the occasion and cared for people on life’s journey.
American will be celebrating this milestone with both customers and team members across the country. In Charlotte (CLT), Chicago (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (LGA), Philadelphia (PHL), Phoenix (PHX) and Washington, D.C. (DCA), customers traveling on the 100th scheduled departure of the day will enjoy a celebration of our history with a glimpse into our future. Together with various partners, travelers will enjoy an elevated celebration with keepsakes to show our appreciation before being welcomed on board to the future of travel.
Throughout the month, customers at all of our Flagship® and Admirals Club® lounges can enjoy themed cocktails and hand-passed light bites to celebrate a taste of the culinary trends that have shaped the last century.
At John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), customers will enjoy a similar celebration with a surprise and delight with a special twist. Flight 100 to London (LHR) will operate with N735AT bearing the “Flagship DFW” special livery, while American’s centennial-themed livery will aptly operate Flight 1926 from ORD to STL and back.
Throughout the year, American is sharing stories and celebrations about its rich history at aa.com/american100. With details about special liveries, team member stories and a timeline of key events in the airline’s history, American’s story is one of triumph, progress and continued connections with customers.
Own a piece of American’s centennial
Icons are coming together as part of American’s centennial merchandise collection. Starting today, preorders are open for a limited-edition collaboration with Sprayground, a pioneer in the world of travel fashion. Designs featuring American’s current centennial branding are available for preorder, while supplies last.
American’s timeless and iconic designs from its rich history are just some of the items available for purchase through the American Airlines Brand Store. Featuring a curated selection of gifts, collectibles and more, ranging from exclusive centennial-branded merchandise, moments of the past and through today, the online store offers ways for brand enthusiasts, customers and future aviators alike to be part of American’s centennial.
Today, American also unveiled special centennial-themed trading cards available exclusively from pilots, starting in May.
