American Airlines marked its 100th anniversary on April 15, 2026, with special events across the network, including a festive gate celebration at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – the airline’s second-largest hub.
Passengers at Gate A-4 who boarded AA Flight 3019 to New York City (LGA) were treated to a DJ, the Carolina Panthers TopCats cheerleaders, refreshments and giveaways, including American Airlines-branded neck pillows, blankets and a commemorative boarding pass.
The 9:10 a.m. flight represented the 100th departure of the day at CLT and brought the centennial celebration full circle.
“This is a pivotal moment as we look back on a century of flight, a hundred years of innovation, connection and caring for people on life’s journey,” said Ralph Lopez Massas, American Airlines Senior Vice President of CLT Operations. “But just as important as the history we celebrate is the future we’re building. You have my commitment that we are moving forever forward as the Charlotte hometown airline.”
According to the company’s website, its first regularly scheduled flight took place on April 15, 1926, and included a bag of U.S. mail in a DH-4 biplane from Chicago to St. Louis, Missouri.
Other American Airlines milestones include carrying its one millionth passenger in 1937, establishing its first hub in Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) in 1981, and merging with US Airways in 2013.
The airline debuted a special flagship livery to celebrate its centennial, as well as commemorative onboard amenity kits and menus.
Last year, American Airlines opened “Provisions by Admirals Club” on Concourse A at CLT, next to gate A1, and announced plans to build a Flagship lounge in Charlotte as well.
The airline operates more than 670 daily flights out of CLT and employs 15,500 team members in Charlotte.
