American Airlines this week unveiled a new throwback livery as it prepares to observe its 100th anniversary in 2026.
The “Flagship” livery incorporates design elements from Americans’ old Douglas DC-3 aircraft, which sported an instantly recognizable orange lightning bolt motif and a roundel with an eagle. It will be painted on a Boeing 777-300 registered as N735AT. The aircraft’s first flight with the new livery will take place in November.
In keeping with American’s former policy of naming DC-3s after the cities they served, the specially designed 777 will be known as “Flagship DFW.”
Airline leaders said the new livery is meant to call attention to the planned refresh of American’s 777-300 fleet, set to start next year. As part of the overhaul, the widebody jets will get Flagship Suite seats, which come with privacy doors, wireless charging pads, and a chaise lounge seating option.
American debuted the Flagship Suites earlier this year on its Boeing 787-9s.
The 777-300s will also get upgraded Premium Economy seats.
“American has thoughtfully chosen a design that evokes our rich history while looking ahead to our next 100 years,” said Ron DeFeo, American’s chief communications officer, in a news release. “Throughout American’s history, ‘Flagship’ has always been recognized as our premium travel experience… Painting the original Flagship design on our Flagship aircraft is a powerful way to honor that legacy while embracing the future.”
American is set to observe its centennial in April 2026.
