American Airlines Begins Celebration of its 100th Year
In 1926, a flight carrying mail between Chicago and St. Louis marked the beginning of a trajectory that, a century later, has become one of the most recognized in global air transportation. That journey belongs to American Airlines, which will reach 100 years of operations in 2026 and has already begun sharing a series of commemorative activities with its passengers that will extend throughout the year.
A Century of Flight that Began with Airmail
The story dates back to when a Robertson Aircraft Corporation DH-4 aircraft took off with mailbags bound for St. Louis. That operation laid the foundation for the modern airline that today operates an extensive domestic and international network. Over these decades, the company has evolved from that first route to initiatives such as the AAdvantage® program, considered an industry leader, and the creation of the world’s first airport lounge.
A Commemoration Already Visible in Airports
The celebrations are not limited to a single date. From now on, travelers will begin to notice the presence of the anniversary at different points along their journey. One of the most visible elements will be a special livery debuting this month on a Boeing 737, a key aircraft within the airline’s short and medium-haul network.
A Design Connecting Past and Future
On the rear section of the fuselage, the aircraft features silver rings in the shape of an infinity symbol, known as the centennial pattern. This detail symbolizes a constant look forward and the possibilities that remain open for the company. The proposal seeks to pay homage to history without losing sight of the evolution of air travel.
Centennial Logo, Present at Every Stage of the Journey
In addition to the special paint job, passengers will find the commemorative logo on multiple platforms. From the online booking process to airports and the onboard experience, the centennial image will accompany users throughout their journey.
This emblem combines the airline’s visual identity with an infinity symbol, representing an enduring relationship with those who fly and a heritage that projects into the future. Its presence will extend to digital channels, such as aa.com, social media, onboard entertainment screens, and merchandise products, including scale models of the aircraft with the special livery. Furthermore, more than 1,500 aircraft in the fleet will incorporate a commemorative badge, bringing the celebration to every daily operation.
Special Experiences Throughout 2026
Throughout the year, the airline plans to offer exclusive touches for customers and team members. These will include amenity kits, pajamas, onboard dining options, and other limited-time offerings, designed to enhance the experience during the centennial year.
A Site Dedicated to the First 100 Years
As part of the tribute, a special portal has been launched where it is possible to delve deeper into the company’s history. Through aa.com/american100, interested parties can learn about the most significant milestones of this first century, read employee stories, and purchase commemorative items.
The site’s content also highlights aspects such as innovation, connecting people, customer experience, teamwork, and loyalty—elements that have defined the airline’s evolution and endurance over time.
Commemorative Cards to Celebrate on the Ground and in the Air
The celebration also reaches the financial sphere. Starting now and for a limited period, new cardholders and those receiving a reissued Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®, Citi® / AAdvantage® Globe™ Mastercard®, or Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® will be able to access an exclusive design featuring the centennial logo.
These special editions allow people to carry a symbol of the airline’s history both in their wallets and onboard its aircraft, reinforcing the message of constantly moving toward the future.
A Legacy That Continues to Expand
Referring to this milestone, Robert Isom, the company’s CEO, noted that being part of the small group of airlines with 100 years of flight is a point of pride. In his words, it is an iconic brand, built on a culture of innovation and forward-thinking, ready to extend that legacy into the next century together with customers and employees.
Thus, the commemoration not only recalls a historic past but also reinforces the vision of continuity and evolution that has accompanied American Airlines since that first airmail flight in 1926.
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Un apasionado por la aviación, Fundador y CEO de Aviación al Día.