On April 15, 2026, American Airlines will reach its 100th anniversary. Ahead of this momentous occasion, American is celebrating the airline's enduring legacy with a commitment to caring for people on life's journey for the next 100 years and beyond.
American set the pace for the aviation industry. From making air travel more accessible to rewarding loyalty, the journey is filled with moments that have shaped the customer experience.
American was the first to fly the Douglas DC-3 in commercial service, which made flying profitable and comfortable. First came the “Skysleeper” with fold-down sleeping spaces, followed by the 21-seat version that truly revolutionized the industry.
To show appreciation for our most loyal customers, we created the “Admiral of the Flagship Fleet” title to boost brand recognition and create an elevated experience. The airline didn't stop there. In 1940, American opened the very first airport lounge, giving most frequent travelers a place to relax in style.
Carlene Roberts Lawrence started as a secretary and rose through the ranks to become the first female vice president in the airline industry. Her leadership helped shape American's future, from relocating its headquarters to supporting military efforts during World War II.
As the role of flight attendants evolved, so did American's commitment to excellence. In 1957, American launched the industry's first stewardess college, offering a rigorous 77-subject curriculum to prepare candidates for the skies.
American introduced the first nonstop transcontinental jet service, cutting coast-to-coast travel time by three hours.
David E. Harris became the first Black pilot for a major U.S. airline. After serving in the military, he joined American and spent 30 years mentoring aspiring aviators and supporting diversity in aviation through the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals.
Bonnie Tiburzi Caputo made history as the first female pilot at a major U.S. airline. At just 24, she flew Boeing 727s as a flight engineer. Her passion for flying started at age 12, and her journey opened doors for countless women in aviation.
American launched the AAdvantage® program, the first frequent flyer program from a major airline. Originally invite-only, it allowed travelers to earn miles automatically — a concept that's now standard across the industry.
On Nov. 13, Evita “Evie” Garces was named the airline's new FAA-certificated Director of Maintenance (DOM). As the first woman and the first Latina team member to occupy this position, American makes history while upholding its commitment to diversity.
To bring its global teams together, American opened the Robert L. Crandall Campus in 2019. Named after the airline's legendary former CEO, the campus is a hub for innovation and teamwork, inspiring the next generation of aviation leaders.
American's centennial reflects a commitment to elevating the customer experience. It signifies connecting people safely and with care, recognizing that every flight is more than a journey — it's a story, a reunion, a new beginning.
Forever forward℠ is a testament to the pioneering spirit and the countless people at American who turned dreams of flight into reality. From carrying mail to carrying passengers, creating the first airport lounge and rewarding our most loyal customers, American evolved the industry.
Forever forward℠ means never standing still. It's a mindset driven by our passion for our customers.
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We will remain focused on moving forward into the next 100 years with the same spirit of innovation and care that has guided us since the very beginning. - Robert Isom, CEO
From trip planning to at the airport to time on board, American is using technology to provide customers a seamless travel journey. Easily booking a dream vacation on our mobile app and offering TSA Touchless ID for AAdvantage® members at select airports are some of the initiatives that make travel easier. And starting in January, American will offer complimentary Wi-Fi on 90% of its aircraft, keeping customers connected while in air.
American is designing innovative, exclusive lounges that offer relaxation and premium amenities. With exquisite Bollinger champagne and locally inspired menus curated by award-winning chefs, customers can relax and recharge before their flight. We opened our newest Flagship® lounge in Philadelphia in 2025 and will be constructing a new Flagship® lounge in Charlotte. Admirals Club® are also being refreshed with the latest amenities, including an expansion in Washington D.C.
The debut of Flagship Suite® seats, with privacy doors, more personal storage and Bluetooth connectivity, offers customers a private premium journey when flying on American’s premium-configured Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A321XLR aircraft. Customers can sip on celebrated Italian coffee, Lavazza, while savoring global flavors with our elevated inflight dining menus – all part of American’s polished premium customer experience.
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