Founded: 1926 (as American Airways from 1930)
Headquarters: Fort Worth, Texas, United States
Main hub: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
American Airlines is one of the oldest airlines in the world and, by fleet size and passengers carried, one of the very largest. From its network of US hubs it connects hundreds of destinations across the Americas, Europe and Asia. Here is a profile of the airline and what to know if you are flying between Israel and the United States.
History and growth of American Airlines
American traces its roots to 1926, when its predecessor companies began carrying airmail – famously including flights piloted by Charles Lindbergh. Dozens of small airlines were merged to form American Airways in 1930, which became American Airlines a few years later. Its 2013 merger with US Airways created what was then the world’s largest airline. American is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, alongside partners such as British Airways, Iberia and Qatar Airways.
The fleet
American operates one of the largest fleets in the world, made up of Boeing and Airbus aircraft. Long-haul international routes are flown mainly by Boeing 777s and 787 Dreamliners, while Airbus A321s and Boeing 737s serve domestic and shorter routes.
Network and hubs
The airline flies to around 350 destinations in more than 50 countries. Its main hubs include Dallas/Fort Worth, Charlotte, Chicago O’Hare, Miami, Philadelphia, Phoenix and New York JFK, making it easy to connect onward to almost anywhere in the United States.
Onboard service
On long-haul flights, American offers business class with lie-flat seats, premium economy and economy. Most international flights include meals, free entertainment and a checked bag in economy, depending on the fare. Its loyalty programme, AAdvantage, is one of the largest in the world.
American Airlines and Israel
American flies between New York JFK and Tel Aviv, giving Israeli travellers a direct link to the US and easy connections across its domestic network. Like other foreign airlines, it has suspended and resumed its Israel flights depending on the security situation – read the American aviation giant resumes flights to Israel and check the current schedule before booking.
Safety
American Airlines operates to the strict safety standards of the US Federal Aviation Administration, with highly trained crews and well-maintained aircraft.
Tips for flying American Airlines
- Get your ESTA first: Israeli passport holders need an approved ESTA to travel to the US – see our ESTA application guide.
- Compare fares carefully: Basic Economy tickets come with restrictions on seats and changes.
- Allow time to connect: after a long-haul flight you will clear US immigration and customs at your first airport, so leave enough time before an onward flight.
Planning your trip? See our guide to New York hotels and highlights, and compare American with its rival in our Delta Air Lines profile.
