American Airlines celebrates 100 years of history
The celebrations for the 100th anniversary of American Airlines are officially starting to take off. The history of the US carrier has its roots in 1926, when a postal flight connected Chicago to St. Louis. From that first connection, one of the most iconic and recognizable airlines in the world was born, now ready to celebrate a century of aviation by looking decisively to the future.
Heading into 2026, American Airlines will progressively engage passengers in centennial celebrations. By the end of the month, a Boeing 737 with a special livery will enter service, designed to pay homage to the brand's history and, at the same time, represent its future vision. The design includes the infinity symbol, a key element of the centenary's identity, which recalls continuity, innovation and new possibilities.
The "American 100" logo will accompany the travel experience at every stage: from online booking to international airports, flights and in-flight content. It will be visible on aa.com, on digital and social channels, on in-flight entertainment screens and on a dedicated merchandising line. In addition, the celebratory motif will be progressively applied to the entire fleet of more than 1,500 aircraft, making each flight an integral part of the celebrations.
Throughout 2026, American will offer special initiatives for passengers and employees, including dedicated toiletries , exclusive pajamas, celebratory menus and surprises available for a limited time. A way to share the goal with those who, every day, choose to fly with the company.
To tell its journey, American has also launched a dedicated digital platform (aa.com/american100), where it is possible to retrace the key moments of the century of history: from the first postal flight to the birth of the AAdvantage® program, from the first airport lounges to the evolution of the premium experience, such as the Flagship Suites®.
The centenary also involves the world of loyalty: Citi® / AAdvantage® Mastercard® cardholders will be able to request limited edition versions with commemorative graphics, available on several products in the range for a limited time.
Today, American Airlines Group connects the United States with more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries, operating more than 6,000 flights a day and carrying more than 200 million passengers each year. With around 130,000 employees and a founding member of the oneworld alliance, it celebrates its centenary as a milestone and, above all, as the beginning of a new chapter, true to the Forever ForwardSM spirit that has marked its entire history.
