A stunning American Airlines (AA) retro jet has hit the skies, painted in honor of the company’s upcoming 100th anniversary in April 2026.
As reported previously by AvGeekery’s Dave Hartland, the retro livery on the Boeing 777-300ER (reg. N735AT) takes fans straight back to the golden age of flight. The design is a modern-day tribute the legendary Douglas DC-3, which helped shape the airline’s early success nearly 90 years ago.
AA has named the plane “Flagship DFW,” reviving a naming tradition that began with the original DC-3s, which proudly bore the names of the cities they served. AA is based at DFW.
Blast from the past, with a modern twist
Flagship DFW gleams in American’s iconic “Silver Eagle” base coat, a hue now seen across more than 1,600 aircraft in the fleet. Running along both sides is the unmistakable orange lightning bolt motif, a design element that first streaked across American’s DC-3s back in the 1930s.
Toward the aft fuselage sits a roundel featuring the classic “AA” logo and eagle, symbolizing how American connects the world while paying homage to the past. It’s the perfect marriage of vintage elegance and modern craftsmanship.
“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. “Painting the original Flagship design on our Flagship aircraft is a powerful way to honor that legacy while embracing the future.”
Retro outside, modern inside
Starting next year, American’s 777-300ERs will begin rolling out with a fully refreshed interior. The aircraft will feature 70 Flagship Suite seats, each equipped with privacy doors, wireless charging pads, and a chaise lounge seating option that allows passengers to stretch out in style.
The Premium Economy cabin also receives an upgrade and will become the first in the US to feature wireless charging, as well as enhanced headrest wings, calf rests, and footrests. Even the Main Cabin is getting some love, with 4K QLED seatback screens (also a first in the US), USB-C, and AC power for every passenger.
More than just a paint job
The creation of Flagship DFW is a fitting move for an airline that already celebrates its history through a fleet of special liveries honoring its predecessors. Few carriers do heritage as well as American.
And that’s what makes this 777 so special. It’s more than a new paint job. It’s a flying tribute to a century of aviation milestones, innovation, and the passengers who helped make it all possible.
Our thanks to Dylan Phelps – Centerline Images for capturing the plane in the wild and sending over some shots! Follow his Facebook page here.
