American Airlines Soars into the Future with New Routes and a Nod to Its Past
American Airlines is set to celebrate its centennial in 2026 with a series of exciting developments. The airline is expanding its domestic network with new flights to popular vacation destinations and introducing a special commemorative livery on one of its Boeing 777 aircraft, paying homage to its rich history. Additionally, American is strengthening its presence in Canada through a new partnership.
Key Takeaways
- American Airlines is launching new routes to beach and mountain destinations for 2026.
- A special centennial livery, inspired by a 1930s design, will adorn a Boeing 777.
- A new codeshare agreement with Porter Airlines expands American’s reach in Canada.
Expanding Leisure Travel Options
American Airlines is bolstering its offerings for leisure travelers in 2026 with the addition of several new routes. From February to March, the airline will reintroduce and expand weekend getaway options from New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to the Southeast. These include flights to Jacksonville, Florida (JAX), Savannah, Georgia (SAV), and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (MYR), operating on Fridays and Saturdays with returns on Sundays.
For summer 2026, American is bringing back nonstop service from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Jackson Hole, Wyoming (JAC), running daily from June 18 through October 4. Additionally, the airline will extend the season for its nonstop flights between Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) in Colorado, operating from June 18 to September 8. In total, American is adding 30 new routes for the summer of 2026.
A Centennial Livery Takes Flight
To commemorate its 100th anniversary in 2026, American Airlines will introduce a distinctive special livery on a Boeing 777-300ER, with the aircraft expected to enter service in November 2025. This unique paint scheme, dubbed "Flagship," blends one of the airline’s original liveries with a modern aesthetic. It features the Silver Eagle color, the iconic orange lightning bolt motif reminiscent of the Douglas DC-3 era, and a roundel with the recognizable eagle connecting the world. The aircraft will be named "Flagship DFW" in honor of the airline’s main hub.
Strengthening Canadian Connectivity
American Airlines has announced a new codeshare agreement with Canadian carrier Porter Airlines. This partnership allows AAdvantage members to earn and redeem miles on select Porter flights, as well as earn Loyalty Points toward elite status. The collaboration facilitates seamless connections through Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ), opening up new travel opportunities to popular Canadian destinations such as Halifax, Ottawa, and Vancouver. This marks one of American’s most significant partnerships with a North American carrier outside of its Oneworld alliance.
New Florida Destination Added
In addition to its broader network expansions, American Airlines is also adding Vero Beach, Florida, to its route map. Starting February 12, 2026, the airline will offer daily nonstop flights between Vero Beach Regional Airport (VRB) and its hub at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). This new service, operated by PSA Airlines on a Bombardier CRJ-900, will provide Vero Beach residents with access to American’s extensive domestic and international network.
### Key Takeaways
- American Airlines adds 2026 flights to beach and mountain getaways, The Points Guy.
- Wow: American Plans Special Centennial Livery On Boeing 777, One Mile at a Time.
- American Airlines launches loyalty partnership with Porter Airlines, The Points Guy.
- American Airlines adds new Florida city to its growing route map, The Points Guy.
