Boeing and Alaska Airlines Announce Largest Airplane Order in Airline’s History

Purchase of 105 737-10s brings Alaska’s 737 MAX order book to 174 airplanes
Five 787 Dreamliners will enable further global network expansion
Order announced as the companies celebrate 60 years of partnership

SEATTLE, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Alaska Airlines today announced the carrier’s largest-ever airplane order as part of its long-term plan to expand its domestic and international route networks. The order includes:

105 737-10 airplanes and options for 35 more of the largest 737 MAX variant to serve high-density routes and renew its existing fleet
Five 787 widebody jets to expand the airline’s long-haul service to and from Europe and Asia

Boeing and Alaska Airlines today announce largest airplane order in airline’s history

“This fleet investment builds on the strong foundation Alaska has created to support steady, scalable and sustained growth, and is another building block in executing our Alaska Accelerate strategic plan,” said Alaska Air Group CEO and President Ben Minicucci. “These planes will fuel our expansion to more destinations across the globe and ensure our guests travel aboard the newest, most fuel-efficient and state-of-the-art aircraft. We are incredibly proud to be partnering with Boeing, a Pacific Northwest neighbor and a company that stands as a symbol of American innovation and manufacturing.”

The fuel-efficient 737-10 will grow and replace Alaska Airlines’ single-aisle fleet to support the carrier’s modernization strategy and enable future network expansion. By introducing the 737-10, Alaska Airlines will comfortably serve more passengers on more routes with the lowest cost per seat of any single-aisle airplane.

The 787 Dreamliner order supports Alaska Airlines’ long-haul growth plans, enabling the airline to expand its international network with industry-leading fuel efficiency, range and passenger comfort. The 787’s advanced aerodynamics, composite structure and modern cabin design make it well-suited for long-range international markets.

“This is a historic airplane order underwritten by Alaska Airlines’ record of strong performance and strategic expansion. All of us at Boeing are proud of Alaska’s success and are honored they have placed their trust in our people and our 737 and 787 airplanes to help grow their airline,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

This order kicks off the 60^th year of the two companies’ partnership, which started when Boeing delivered a 727 to Alaska Airlines. The airline currently operates 248 737 airplanes and now has 174 737 MAX jets on order. The 737-10 will bring further network and fleet flexibility while maintaining commonality ─ complementing Alaska Airlines’ fleet of Next-Generation 737 and 737 MAX airplanes.

The Seattle-based carrier has five 787 Dreamliners in service, and this purchase brings its order book to 12 of the widebody family as Alaska Airlines expands its global network to serve at least 12 international destinations in the next few years.

A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.

Delta named Official Airline of Sphere, bringing first branded hospitality space to Las Vegas’ iconic venue

Delta Air Lines has announced a partnership as the Official Airline of Sphere, marking a new chapter in connecting customers to world-class experiences beyond flight.

As part of the multi-year partnership, Delta and Sphere will introduce the Delta SKY360° Club — Sphere’s first branded hospitality space — and provide premium experiences to SkyMiles Members through the SkyMiles Experiences platform, reinforcing Delta’s commitment to connecting customers to the moments that matter most.

“At Delta, our mission is to make every journey matter, and that extends beyond the flight,” said Alicia Tillman, Chief Marketing Officer at Delta Air Lines. “Just as we connect people to the places and experiences that matter most, this partnership allows us to bring that same spirit of connection and innovation to one of the most iconic venues in the world.”

The Delta SKY360° Club at Sphere, which is now open on the event level, offers guests an intimate lounge experience during live music acts, Sphere Experiences including The Wizard of Oz at Sphere, and special events at the venue. 

The partnership also includes Delta’s presence on the Exosphere — the largest LED screen in the world — along with integration across Sphere’s onsite signage and digital platforms. And, through the SkyMiles Experiences platform, members will gain access to unforgettable packages and events at Sphere throughout 2026 and beyond, reinforcing Delta’s commitment to connecting customers to the moments that matter most.

“Delta and Sphere share a commitment to innovation, technology and connecting people through world-class experiences,” said Marcus Ellington, Executive Vice President, Ad Sales and Sponsorships, Sphere. “We are proud to welcome Delta as our partner on two firsts for Sphere – our first official airline and first branded hospitality space – and we look forward to building on this collaboration, offering guests an elevated experience and showcasing the best of each of our brands.”

Delta at CES

The Delta and Sphere partnership comes nearly a year after Delta CEO Ed Bastian delivered the first-ever CES keynote at Sphere, with visuals and immersive 4D effects developed by Sphere Studios, celebrating the airline’s Centennial anniversary and its commitment to using technology to enrich human experiences.

And, in 2026, Delta is gearing up for CES by offering new and increased flight options to Las Vegas, with nearly 700 flights connecting tech enthusiasts to the most influential tech event in the world. International customers travelling to CES 2026 will be able to enjoy nonstop service to Las Vegas (LAS) with new service from Shanghai (PVG) and returning Amsterdam (AMS), Paris (CDG), Seoul (ICN) and London (LHR) services.

Lufthansa turns 100!

In 2026, Lufthansa marks a major milestone: on January 6, 1926, 100 years ago, the first “Luft Hansa” was founded, and by April 6 of the same year, it had its maiden flight. This anniversary is not only a reflection on the history of one of aviation’s most iconic brands but also a significant step into the future. It honors the pioneering spirit, innovation, and connection of people, cultures, and economies that Lufthansa has shaped for a century.

The story begins with the founding of the first Lufthansa, formed through the merger of Junkers Luftverkehr and Deutsche Aero Lloyd. This fusion laid the foundation for a success story in international aviation that continues to this day. However, the journey was not always smooth. Lufthansa’s history is marked by challenges, interruptions, and new beginnings, showcasing the company’s resilience and relentless spirit of innovation.

The darkest chapter in Lufthansa’s history was during the Nazi era, when the airline became part of the regime and played an active role within it. Lufthansa is using its 100th anniversary as an opportunity to critically examine its involvement during this time and further address it based on historical research. In reflecting on its history, Lufthansa does not limit itself to the post-war chapters. The years from its founding to the downfall of the first Lufthansa are equally part of the company’s story.

With the re-establishment of the “second Lufthansa” in 1953, the legal foundation of today’s Lufthansa was created. Once again, great pioneering spirit was required to embark on a fresh start after the war. In 1955, flight operations resumed, and the journey of the newly founded Deutsche Lufthansa AG began.

The 100th anniversary of Lufthansa is a moment of pride and reflection. At the same time, it represents a bold look into the future and the beginning of the company’s second century.

Anniversary Motto: “We are the Journey”

The anniversary will be celebrated under the motto “We are the Journey” – a message that highlights the shared journey of employees, passengers, and fans of the brand. Since its first flight 100 years ago, Lufthansa has not only written its own history but has also significantly shaped the future of aviation.

The anniversary is a tribute to the guests who have accompanied Lufthansa through a century of challenges, changes, and progress. Without their loyalty and trust, Lufthansa’s success story would not have been possible. The anniversary is therefore an expression of gratitude to the people who have shaped this journey.

This especially includes the employees: Lufthansa staff members. Since the company’s founding, they have been united by a unique spirit characterized by pioneering ambition, a passion for flying, and a commitment to excellence. Today, 40,000 people from 122 nations work for the Lufthansa brand, and 100,000 people from over 160 nations are part of the Group.

A Year of Experiences for Customers, Fans, and Employees

In the anniversary year 2026, Lufthansa will organize a variety of activities and events to honor the history and future of the aviation group. These include a permanent exhibition at the Lufthansa Group Hangar One, special events, a history book, film and video productions, employee celebrations, customer events, as well as marketing and product campaigns.

The anniversary year will be visible and tangible for Lufthansa customers starting in January. The special “100 Years of Lufthansa” emblem will appear on boarding passes, at airports, and onboard Lufthansa flights in many places. Outside of airports – for example, in many city centers – a poster campaign will tell Lufthansa’s story through iconic images and messages.

Flying Ambassadors: The Lufthansa Anniversary Fleet

A highlight of the celebrations will be the special aircraft liveries: the key sub-fleets of Lufthansa’s core brand will feature one aircraft with the new 100-year special livery. The Lufthansa anniversary fleet consists of six aircraft: an Airbus A380, an Airbus A350-1000, an Airbus A350-900, an Airbus A320, and a Boeing 747-8. Leading the anniversary fleet is the Boeing 787-9 named “Berlin,” (below) which was delivered from Boeing’s factory in Washington State, USA, to Germany shortly before Christmas and landed at its new home airport in Frankfurt. Soon, this state-of-the-art aircraft, registered as D-ABPU, will enter scheduled service.

Additionally, there will be two retro liveries. These designs combine tradition and progress, making each aircraft a unique flying ambassador of the brand. The iconic crane, designed by Otto Firle in 1918, remains Lufthansa’s global symbol.

American Airlines launches FREE high-speed Wi-Fi, sponsored by AT&T, available on more aircraft than any other carrier in the world

American Airlines is delivering what customers have been asking for: free, high-speed Wi-Fi and on more aircraft than any other carrier in the world. Beginning this month, AAdvantage^® members will enjoy free high-speed, satellite-based Wi-Fi¹ across more than 2 million American Airlines flights a year, sponsored by AT&T.

To make this possible across one of the world’s largest airline networks, the rollout will happen in phases. Starting in January, free high-speed Wi-Fi will begin rolling out across 100% of our narrowbody and dual-class regional fleets, and by early spring, it will be available on nearly every American Airlines flight.

Easy access at 35,000 feet

Accessing free Wi-Fi is easy through the upgraded aainflight.com portal. Customers can simply log in using their AAdvantage^® number and password, then select “Free Wi-Fi” to start browsing. The new portal is designed for speed, reliability and simplicity, making it effortless to stay connected in flight.

Not an AAdvantage^® member yet? Joining is free and easy — sign up before your trip at aa.com or right from your seat during your flight at aainflight.com. Membership in our industry-leading loyalty program unlocks more than just Wi-Fi. Members can enjoy benefits like priority boarding, earning miles toward elite status and redeeming miles for award travel, upgrades and vacation packages.

100% of American’s narrowbody and dual-class regional fleets will offer free, high-speed Wi-Fi, sponsored by AT&T, for all AAdvantage^® members.
American’s new Boeing 787-9 and 787-8 aircraft will also feature free Wi-Fi. Once rollout is complete, American will offer free Wi-Fi on more aircraft than any other airline in the world.

A partnership built for connection

As a long-standing AT&T business customer, American found a natural opportunity to join forces with AT&T. Both brands share a belief that people should be able to stay connected anywhere, anytime — even at 35,000 feet.

Leading the industry in high-speed Wi-Fi coverage

American has invested for more than a decade to deliver one of the most expansive inflight connectivity networks. The airline has long been a leader in inflight connectivity, beginning with air-to-ground innovation in the mid-2000s.

But the airline isn’t done innovating the onboard journey. Today:

American has more satellite-equipped Wi-Fi aircraft than any other carrier in the world.
More than 900 mainline aircraft are equipped with high-speed satellite Wi-Fi connectivity through Viasat or Intelsat.
American was the first U.S. airline to offer streaming capabilities across 100% of its mainline fleet.

As American looks ahead, free Wi-Fi creates the foundation for future innovations in personalization, digital service and a more seamless, premium travel experience.

¹Complimentary inflight Wi-Fi will be powered by Viasat and Intelsat.

Cathay Pacific celebrates 80 Years with two retrojets, B-LRJ launches its inaugural flight to San Francisco today

Cathay Pacific Airways announced:

Hong Kong, we’ve flown a long way

In 2026, we mark a momentous milestone – our 80th anniversary. Over the last eight decades, our shared journey has been woven from the threads of thoughtfulness, progressiveness, and the unique can-do spirit of Hong Kong. As we look to the future, we remain committed to our vision of becoming our customers’ most-loved service brand.

Join us as we honour our legacy of connection and celebrate 80 Years Together.

A grainy vintage photograph of the interior of a Cathay Pacific aircraft cabin with green colour seating. A flight attendant places an object on the table in front of a seated female passenger.

Born with a purpose From a single aircraft and a big dream, we’ve expanded our network to over 100 destinations and evolved from an airline into a premium travel lifestyle brand.Discover our 80-year journey – defined by moments of progress and passionate dedication to moving our customers forward in life.

80 years of Cathay

Be part of the celebrations

We invite you to celebrate 80 years together throughout 2026, packed with special events and initiatives to commemorate the journey we’ve shared.

Service in style

For 80 years, our uniforms have been more than simple attire – they’re enduring symbols of our service and identity. We’re bringing back our vintage uniforms, modelled by some of our cabin crew and ground staff throughout the year.

How Cathay Pacific’s aircraft liveries communicate our story

The colours of Cathay through the years: a history of identity and drive

By Ophelia Lai

View of an older livery on a Cathay Pacific aircraft flying through the sky.

The jade-green tailfin, our brushwing logo – these design elements immediately distinguish the Cathay Pacific fleet on the tarmac. These now-iconic details didn’t always grace our aircraft – our liveries have evolved over the past 80 years, simultaneously charting Cathay Pacific’s growth into one of the most recognisable airline brands in the world.

The earliest Cathay Pacific aircraft ‘Betsy’ from 1946

Our story began in 1946, with a converted Douglas DC-3 affectionately nicknamed “Betsy”. Roy Farrell purchased this wartime aircraft to transport goods between Australia and China, with fellow wartime pilot Sydney de Kantzow soon joining the partnership. They had grander ambitions from the start: the name of their company, Cathay Pacific Airways, originated from Farrell’s belief that their planes would one day cross the vast expanse of the Pacific. The original Betsy aircraft had a bare-metal body with “Cathay Pacific Airways” emblazoned in red cursive lettering on the fuselage.

View of the Cathay Pacific Convair 880 Jetliner.

In the 1960s, Cathay Pacific entered the Jet Age with an expanded fleet of midsized Convair 880 Jetliners sporting smart green-and-white liveries. The airline name printed on the fuselage was shortened to “Cathay Pacific” in red, upper-case lettering. These elements were retained in our legendary “lettuce leaf sandwich” livery, which defined our upgraded fleet of Lockheed L-1011 TriStars and Boeing 747s from the 1970s to the early 1990s. The tailfin was painted in alternating stripes of white and Brunswick green, resembling a stack of salad leaves.

A Cathay Pacific aircraft decorated in the Brunswick green lettuce leaf livery sits on the runway against a backdrop of buildings in Hong Kong.

Former Cathay Pacific pilot Captain Colin Couch remembers flying these aircraft into Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Airport: “When you saw that iconic livery, you knew it was Cathay Pacific,” he says. “It must have been thrilling for the passengers as well, to fly in those green-and-white planes over Hong Kong’s buildings and land right in the heart of the city.”

As our route network expanded across Europe and North America in the 1990s, we needed a new look anchored to our proud identity as Hong Kong’s home carrier. In 1994, we debuted our brushwing logo, a symbol of flight rendered in a swooping calligraphic stroke that honours our Chinese heritage. We also swapped Brunswick green for the modern, elegant Cathay jade.

In 2015, we unveiled a sleeker version of this livery, removing the red stripes from the tailfin and nose.

“Cathay’s story is inextricably tied to the history and people of Hong Kong,” says Edward Bell, General Manager Brand, Insights and Marketing Communications at Cathay. “Our signature brushwing livery is an expression of our deep roots in Hong Kong, being proudly part of the Chinese Mainland, and our role in connecting people to the rest of the world.”

People gather around a Cathay Pacific aircraft decorated with the Spirit of Hong Kong livery.

Credit: South China Morning Post/Getty Images

We’ve also celebrated our home city through special liveries over the past two decades. To mark the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in 1997, we launched the Spirit of Hong Kong livery, depicting the city’s famed skyline. In 2002, we introduced our Asia’s World City livery in support of Brand Hong Kong ’s campaign of the same name. This design featured a teal body printed with Brand Hong Kong’s fiery dragon logo as well as flowing lines representing the city’s flair and vitality.

As we commemorate our 80th anniversary, we’re introducing two new Cathay Pacific liveries: versions of our classic lettuce livery, giving you the chance to fly on a piece of aviation history. We’ll also be unveiling a third special livery later this year – stay tuned.

Starlux Airlines takes delivery of its first Airbus A350-1000

STARLUX Airlines of Taiwan has taken delivery of its first of 18 A350-1000s, becoming the 11th global operator of the largest version of the A350. The new A350-1000 will join a fleet of 10 A350-900s already in service with the airline, deployed on premier long-haul services from Taipei to Europe and North America, as well as selected destinations within the Asia-Pacific region.

To mark the arrival of its newest fleet member, STARLUX has unveiled a striking livery that reflects both innovation and identity. The design integrates the airline’s signature visual elements with a carbon-fibre motif, representing the advanced composite materials integral to the aircraft’s construction. The prominent ‘1000’ emblazoned on the fuselage highlights the aircraft’s designation as the largest in-production Airbus model, now serving as the airline’s new flagship.

STARLUX currently operates an all-Airbus fleet comprising the A321neo, the A330-900, and the A350-900 aircraft. The new A350-1000 will seamlessly complement the airline’s existing fleet. Furthermore, the airline has ordered 10 A350F freighters to develop its future cargo network.

More airline news:

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Hawaiian Airlines, a part of Alaska Airlines, announces Kahu‘ewai Hawai‘i Investment Plan of more than $600M over five years

Hawaiian Airlines made this announcement:

Hawaiian Airlines, a part of Alaska Airlines, today unveiled an investment plan of more than $600 million over five years to comprehensively enhance the experience for guests traveling to, from and within the islands by modernizing airport spaces, upgrading technology and retrofitting aircraft interiors, while expanding community and sustainability work across Hawai‘i.

Hawaiian Airlines’ Kahuʻewai Hawai‘i Investment Plan will improve the guest experience from booking to the day of travel and provide airport and in-flight teams with modern tools and spaces to welcome travelers with their award-winning Hawaiian hospitality. Investments will also help Hawaiian advance lower emission technologies and programs promoting regenerative tourism, culture and conservation.

Major airport renovations include improved lobbies, gates and amenities at Honolulu, Līhu‘e, Kahului, Kona and Hilo, plus a new premium lounge in Honolulu.
The airline will update its app and website, offering better travel planning and self-service features, and invest in new technology for employees.
The carrier is investing in a refreshed onboard experience with upgraded widebody Airbus A330 interiors, while offering enhanced rewards and exclusive benefits to loyal Hawai‘i residents.

Kahuʻewai signifies fresh water bursting forth as a metaphor for vital resources. Much like water that flows and nurtures, the investments will deliver benefits across Hawaiian Airlines and communities in Hawai‘i today and for a long time to come.

Airports: Starting this year through 2029, Hawaiian Airlines will renovate lobbies and gates in Honolulu, Līhu‘e, Kahului, Kona and Hilo to improve passenger flow and comfort, with bright, elegant open spaces and better seating and amenities like increased power charging. In Honolulu, Hawaiian’s busiest hub, the airline will build a spacious 10,600-square-foot premium lounge at the entrance of the Mauka Concourse in Terminal 1 – setting a new standard of preflight comfort.

Technology: This spring, Hawaiian Airlines will launch an updated, modern app and website with improved functionality to simplify travel planning, booking and trip management with self-service features like changing flights and redeeming award travel on global partners. The airline is also investing in new technology to support employees in their critical roles across the operation. Full functionality of these tools – and a significantly smoother guest experience – will be possible once Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines share the same passenger service system and Hawaiian Airlines joins the oneworld alliance, both scheduled for late April.

Aircraft: Hawaiian Airlines’ fleet of widebody Airbus A330s, based in Honolulu, will undergo a full interior upgrade, starting in 2028, with new seats, carpets, lighting, first class suites, and a premium economy cabin. Guests will also enjoy a Bluetooth-enabled in-flight entertainment system with high-definition seatback screens and an extensive movie and music library, along with fast and free Starlink Wi-Fi. The airline is also acquiring three of its A330 aircraft oƯ lease to support the future of this fleet in its service across the Pacific.

Loyalty: Later this year, Hawaiian Airlines will reward Hawai‘i residents who are members of its popular Huaka‘i by Hawaiian loyalty program with a 50% bonus on Atmos Rewards points and status points earned on Neighbor Island flights, adding to exclusive kama‘āina benefits that include a free checked bag, 10% or 20% quarterly discounts when flying within the state, and monthly systemwide deals.

As part of its community and sustainability initiatives, Hawaiian is expanding a partnership with business accelerator Mana Up through an investment in its Mana Up Capital II fund to help more local companies scale for the global market. Hawaiian has featured more than a dozen local retailers in the food, fashion, beauty and home and art sectors in its onboard service since becoming Mana Up’s official airline sponsor in 2017.

Hawaiian last month announced it is investing in locally produced sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to reduce flight emissions and support agriculture in partnership with Pono Pacific and Par Hawaii, and that it would be the first airline to take deliveries of Hawai‘i-made SAF later this year. The airline is also working to advance innovative lower-emission options for short-haul air service with an investment in hybrid-electric propulsion developer Ampaire and increasing use of electric ground service vehicles at Honolulu airport.

Finally, the airline will be providing grants to nonprofit organizations promoting cultural programs, environmental preservation and perpetuation of native Hawaiian art and language through the Alaska Airlines | Hawaiian Airlines Foundation, a newly integrated 501(c)(3) foundation dedicated to these efforts in their two namesake states.

The Hawaiian Airlines’ Kahuʻewai Hawai‘i Investment Plan is part of Alaska Air Group’s Alaska Accelerate strategic plan to deliver on the combined airline’s vision of connecting guests to the world with a remarkable travel experience rooted in safety, care and performance.

This Day in Airline History – January Events

This Day in Airline History – January Events:

January Events as a Slide Show:

Remembering Avianca flight AV052 of January 25, 1990 (click phto for details):

January Events:

History of American Airlines

On April 15, 1926, the first regularly scheduled flight for American Airlines included a bag of U.S. mail in a DH-4 biplane from Chicago to St. Louis, Missouri.

Robertson Aircraft Corporation and more than 80 other small airline companies were consolidated in 1929 and 1930 into the Aviation Corporation, which eventually formed American Airways, the immediate forerunner of today’s American.

1930s

1933: American began flying the 18-passenger Curtiss Condor. Flight attendants — then called stewardesses — made their first appearance on an American aircraft

1934: American Airways was reorganized and became American Airlines, Inc.

1936: American is the first airline to fly the Douglas DC-3 in commercial service between New York and Chicago

1937: American carries its one millionth passenger

1939: All American Aviation — later US Airways — is founded in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

June 1939: American begins trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)

American Airlines in the 1930s

American Airlines in the 1940s

1940s

1942: American enters the airline catering business with a subsidiary called Sky Chefs to provide food service for its passengers as well as those flying other airlines

October 1944: American operates its first scheduled air cargo flights from New York’s LaGuardia Airfield, marking the world’s first scheduled air cargo service

1945: American begins operating trans-Atlantic service for the first time with American Overseas Airlines

1946: American establishes its maintenance and engineering base in Tulsa, Oklahoma

1947: American introduces the fully pressurized Douglas DC-6, offering sleeper flights between New York and Los Angeles

1950s

1952: American introduces the Magnetronic Reservisor to keep track of seats available on flights

1953: American pioneers nonstop transcontinental service across the U.S. with the Douglas DC-7

1955: American opens its operation at ORD

1957: American opens the world’s first special facility for flight attendant training — the American Airlines Stewardess College — in Fort Worth, Texas

Jan. 25, 1959: American launches the first scheduled transcontinental U.S. passenger jet service with the Boeing 707 from Los Angeles to New York Idlewild (now Kennedy)

American Airlines in the 1950s

American Airlines in the 1960s

1960s

1960: American opens its new terminal at JFK

1964: American adds the Boeing 727 to its fleet

December 1964: American hires David E. Harris, the first Black U.S. commercial airline pilot

1966: American launches The American Way inflight magazine

1968: The legendary C.R. Smith retires as Chief Executive, having run the airline for more than 30 years

1970s

January 1970: American merges with Trans Caribbean Airways, gaining new Caribbean routes

1977: American launches “Super Saver” fares, offering discounted fares when purchased in advance

1979: American moves its headquarters from New York City to the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area

American Airlines in the 1970s

American Airlines in the 1980s

1980s

1981: American establishes its first hub in Dallas-Fort Worth

1982: American opens its Chicago hub

1983: America West commences operations in Tempe, Arizona

1984: American introduces the American Eagle system

September 1989: American opens its hub in Miami

December 1989: American announces plans to expand its Latin American service with routes from Eastern Airlines

1990s

1991: American celebrates its one billionth customer

1999: Oneworld alliance is launched by founding members American Airlines, British Airways, Canadian Airlines International, Cathay Pacific Airways and Qantas

American Airlines in the 1990s

American Airlines in the 2000s

2000s

January 2001: American announces plans to acquire the assets of Trans World Airlines (TWA)

Sept. 11, 2001: American tragically loses 23 people, including pilots, flight attendants and family members, in the events surrounding Flights 11 and 77

Sept. 27, 2005: US Airways merges with America West

2008: American introduces mobile boarding passes

2010s

2013: American merges with US Airways

May 2015: American flies its first revenue flight with the Boeing 787

August 2015: American’s Robert W. Baker Integrated Operations Center opens in Fort Worth

2017: Air Transport World magazine names American its 2017 Airline of the Year

Sept. 4, 2019: American retires the last of its MD-80 aircraft after 36 years as the workhorse of the airline’s fleet

Oct. 15, 2019: American celebrates 75 years of connecting the world through cargo operations

American Airlines in the 2010s

American Airlines in the 2020s

2020s

April 15, 2021: American celebrates its 95th birthday by helping to grant 95 wishes with a donation of 10 million AAdvantage® miles to Make-A-Wish

April 19, 2022: American becomes the first airline globally to receive validation from the Science Based Targets initiative for its 2035 greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets

February 2023: Air Transport World magazine names American its 2023 Eco-Airline of the Year

2026: American celebrates its centennial

American Airlines centennial celebrations take flight, unveils a special 100 years special livery on N840NN

American Airlines announced:

In 1926, the story of one of the world’s most iconic airline brands started with a flight carrying mail from Chicago to St. Louis. And 100 years later, the story of that one flight unfolded into a global aviation leader: American Airlines. While there’s much to celebrate in 2026, customers will start to see and be a part of American’s celebrations for a milestone of 100 years of flight starting today.

“American is proud to be among the small group of airlines that have celebrated 100 years of flight,” said Robert Isom, American’s Chief Executive Officer. “There’s no brand in aviation more iconic than American, built on a culture of innovation and forward-thinking. We’re poised to continue that legacy into the next 100 years for our customers and team members.”

A centennial celebration for all customers

Travelers should get their cameras ready to capture a special centennial livery on a Boeing 737-800 later this month. This aircraft, which is one of the backbones of American’s industry-leading domestic and short-haul international network, pays homage to the past while looking to the future of travel.

Toward the aft of the aircraft, the silver infinity rings, referred to as American’s centennial pattern, represent a subtle nod to the airline’s forward focus and infinite possibilities.

Travelers will also start seeing the airline’s centennial logo throughout various points in their travel journey — from the online booking process to airports and in flight.

This centennial logo — a seamless blend of American’s brand with an infinity symbol to represent American’s enduring legacy and connection with its customers — will be featured across the airline’s digital channels, including aa.com, social media channels, inflight entertainment screens and merchandise, including airplane models of the centennial livery. In addition, the airline is placing a special decal of the logo to its fleet of more than 1,500 aircraft, celebrating American’s centennial with every flight.

Behind the design

The centennial livery utilizes the current livery design as a canvas with commemorations to the airline’s 100-year brand and progress. Evoking a sense of familiarity, the aircraft has been thoughtfully layered with details telling a deeper story:

Silver infinity rings: These striking visual rings symbolize enduring legacy and infinite possibilities. The abstract circular motion ties back to the infinity icon embedded in American’s centennial logo.
Three shades of gray: Each ring is painted in a different gray tone representing our past, present and future. This gradient of grays honors American’s history while embracing the future.
Mica finish: The rings shimmer with a mica-infused finish, adding depth and brilliance. This isn’t just aesthetic — it’s a tribute to the airline’s illustrious heritage and premium experience, catching the light like the polished aluminum of the early fleet but with a modern twist. It’s a reminder that while styles evolve, the spirit of American Airlines endures.

Meanwhile, the remainder of American’s fleet will include decals commemorating the airline’s centennial at the boarding door. These decals are already flying on some aircraft and will be applied across the airline’s fleet of more than 1,500 aircraft.

Throughout 2026, American will be thoughtfully celebrating its centennial year with customers and team members. Travelers can look forward to special centennial treats including amenity kits, pajamas, inflight dining offerings and more limited-time delights taking flight this year.

Dive deeper into American’s centennial

American has launched a special website to pay homage to the airline’s rich history. Starting today, visit aa.com/american100 to learn more about American’s first 100 years, read team member stories and purchase Centennial merchandise.

Throughout 2026, American’s history of innovation, connection, customer experience, teamwork and loyalty will be on display for customers to learn more about how the airline has evolved and persevered over the past 100 years.

In 1926, a Robertson Aircraft Corporation DH-4 took off from Chicago bound for St. Louis with mail in tow. With that flight, the roots of modern-day American were sowed. From that first flight to the launch of the airline’s industry-leading AAdvantage® program and the world’s first airport lounge to the future travel experience with Flagship Suite® seats, learning more about American’s history and legacy is available at the click of a button.

Citi® / AAdvantage® Mastercard® cardmembers can celebrate with limited-edition centennial credit cards

New Citi® / AAdvantage® Mastercard® cardmembers now have a chance to carry a piece of history in their wallets.

To celebrate American’s centennial milestone, starting today for a limited time, all new and reissued Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®, Citi® / AAdvantage® Globe™ Mastercard® and Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® credit cards will feature an exclusive commemorative design showcasing American’s centennial logo.

Whether it is in a customer’s wallet or flying above the clouds on American’s aircraft, the centennial logo demonstrates the airline’s commitment to keep moving forever forward.