American Airlines to Celebrate 80th Anniversary With First Flight to China

In April, American Airlines celebrates its 80th anniversary with special introductory fares on new daily nonstop service between Chicago and Shanghai, China -- the airline´s first service to China, one of the world´s fastest growing markets for commercial aviation.

American began service between Chicago and St. Louis, Missouri, in April 1926. Now, 80 years later, Shanghai will be the 21st international destination served by American and its affiliate, American Eagle, from Chicago as the airline continues to expand its operations in Asia. More than 300,000 companies based in the Chicago area, including 34 Fortune 500 companies, will benefit from nonstop service to one of China´s largest business centers.

From Shanghai, American will offer convenient connections to several cities throughout China via its partnership with China Eastern Airlines, one of the largest airlines in China.

Travelers to and from Shanghai will fly in style on a Boeing 777, the largest and most comfortable aircraft in American´s fleet. On board, customers will enjoy distinctive service and dining options in all three cabins, including a selection of Chinese food and Chinese beer. In-flight entertainment will be available, as well as power ports in each premium cabin seat and on some seats in the main cabin. So whether relaxing or working, the in-flight experience will be enjoyable.

American Airlines is the world´s largest airline. American, American Eagle and American Connection serve 250 cities in over 40 countries with more than 3,900 daily flights.