American Airlines Launches New Menu

Published: Sunday, February 8, 2026 at 3:03 pm

American Airlines Celebrates Centennial with 1920s-Inspired Menu

American Airlines is marking its 100th anniversary with a new, limited-time in-flight menu inspired by classic dishes from the 1920s. The airline aims to capture the elegance and culinary character of the era while adapting the offerings for the modern in-flight experience. Preorders for the new menu will begin on February 9, 2026.

Starting in March, international and transcontinental Flagship First and Flagship Business passengers will be the first to experience the new menu. Appetizers will include a prawn cocktail and Waldorf salad. In April, to coincide with the airline's centennial month, these appetizers will be elevated to include caviar blinis and deviled eggs topped with crème fraîche.

Domestic First Class passengers will gain access to the new menu in April. The menu will feature modern interpretations of 1920s favorites, including Waldorf salad, beef Wellington with roasted vegetables, asparagus with bernaise sauce, and pecan tart. Entrée selections in premium cabins will include beef Wellington with bernaise sauce and roasted vegetables, and chicken Florentine roulade served with mashed potatoes and mushroom sauce.

According to Rhonda Crawford, American Airlines' senior vice president of customer experience design and strategy, the menus are designed to celebrate the airline's history while enhancing the customer experience. The airline aims to evoke the flavors of its early days in a way that is both special and memorable for today's travelers. The dishes are presented with modern plating, avoiding overt theming. The airline plans to offer the centennial dining options through August. Additional anniversary elements, including livery and logo updates, and a centennial website, are planned for 2026.

BNN's Perspective:

This move by American Airlines is a clever way to acknowledge its long history and offer a touch of nostalgia to its premium passengers. While the menu's appeal will likely be limited to those in premium cabins, it's a classy gesture that could resonate well with travelers seeking a more elevated in-flight experience. It's a subtle approach, which is often more effective than flashy gimmicks, and it reflects a commitment to quality and customer experience.

Keywords: American Airlines, in-flight menu, 1920s, centennial, anniversary, Flagship First, Flagship Business, Waldorf salad, beef Wellington, caviar, preorders, travel, airline, food, dining, premium, first class, business class

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