American Airlines
American major airline operating domestic and international flights, serving as one of the world's largest airlines with extensive route networks and fleet.
Company Type
public
Founded
1930
Headquarters
Fort Worth, Texas, USA
Stock
NASDAQ: AAL
About American Airlines
American Airlines operates primarily as a major passenger and cargo airline, serving millions of passengers annually across domestic and international routes. The company employs approximately 130,000 people globally and operates one of the largest commercial aircraft fleets in the world.
The company's primary revenue comes from passenger ticket sales across various service classes, cargo transportation, and ancillary services like baggage fees, seat selection, and loyalty program partnerships.
American Airlines invests heavily in fleet modernization, customer experience improvements, and network optimization to maintain its competitive position in the global aviation industry.
History of American Airlines
American Airlines was founded in 1930 through the consolidation of numerous small aviation companies, led by E.L. Cord and C.R. Smith. The company was established as American Airways and began operations with mail routes and passenger services across the United States.
Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, American Airlines grew rapidly, introducing innovative services like the first airline loyalty program (AAdvantage in 1981) and pioneering transcontinental passenger flights. The company played a crucial role in the development of commercial aviation in the United States.
In 1982, American Airlines was acquired by AMR Corporation, which became the parent company. The airline continued to expand its route network and modernize its fleet throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
The company faced significant challenges in the early 2000s following the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent aviation industry crisis. American Airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2011 and emerged in 2013 after merging with US Airways.
The merger with US Airways created the world's largest airline and significantly expanded American Airlines' route network, particularly in the eastern United States and internationally. The company has continued to modernize its fleet and enhance customer service.
Brands Owned by American Airlines
American Airlines owns 0 brands in our database.
Stock Information
American Airlines Ownership: Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Extensive route network covering domestic and international destinations
- +One of the largest frequent flyer programs with AAdvantage
- +Modern fleet with fuel-efficient aircraft
- +Strong hub network providing convenient connections
- +Alliance partnerships offering global reach
Considerations
- -Vulnerability to economic downturns and fuel price fluctuations
- -Intense competition from other major airlines and low-cost carriers
- -Operational challenges including weather disruptions and labor relations
- -High capital requirements for fleet modernization and maintenance
- -Regulatory scrutiny over market dominance and consumer protection
Frequently Asked Questions About American Airlines
Is American Airlines a subsidiary of another company?
American Airlines is not a subsidiary of another company. It operates as an independent, publicly traded corporation since its founding in 1930.
Is American Airlines publicly traded?
Yes, American Airlines is publicly traded on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol AAL, allowing investors to own shares in the company.
When was American Airlines founded?
American Airlines was founded in 1930 through the consolidation of numerous small aviation companies, led by E.L. Cord and C.R. Smith.
Who founded American Airlines?
American Airlines was founded by E.L. Cord and C.R. Smith, who consolidated various small aviation companies to create the airline.
What is American Airlines' market position?
American Airlines maintains a leading position in the global aviation industry as one of the world's largest airlines by passengers carried and fleet size, with extensive domestic and international route networks.
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