American Airlines Celebrates 1,000th Mainline Aircraft with New Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
Fort Worth–based American Airlines has reached a historic milestone, adding its 1,000th mainline aircraft to the fleet. The jet, a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in the new premium-heavy “787-9P” configuration, arrived at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport on August 29, 2025.
This latest addition includes American’s Flagship Suite, featuring chaise lounge seating, privacy doors, and expanded storage. Since April, the carrier has taken delivery of eight 787-9s and expects to have 33 in service by the end of 2025.
It marks the first time American has crossed into four-digit fleet size, counting only its mainline jets (excluding regional aircraft). The fleet hovered just under 1,000 since the 2013 merger with US Airways, which boosted the total from 614 to 970.
The new 787-9P is currently deployed on routes such as Philadelphia–Zurich and will also serve Dallas/Fort Worth–Brisbane. Configured with 244 seats, the aircraft offers:
- 51 Flagship Suites with premium amenities including duvets, slippers, and noise-canceling headphones.
- 8 Flagship Suite Preferred seats, offering additional privacy and space.
- 32 redesigned Premium Economy seats with more comfort and storage.
“We are excited to grow our fleet, adding even more aircraft that offer customers a premium travel experience,” said Heather Garboden, American’s Chief Customer Officer. “Looking forward to our next 100 years, we are focused on reimagining the onboard experience along with every aspect of the travel journey.”
American introduced the 787-9P designation to distinguish its premium configuration from standard Dreamliners. The strategy reflects its push to enhance long-haul international travel while competing with global carriers on comfort and service.
By the end of 2025, American’s regional fleet will number about 566 jets, operated by subsidiaries Envoy, PSA, and Piedmont using Embraer and Bombardier aircraft.
With this milestone, American becomes the second-largest commercial airline fleet in the world with 1,000 jets, trailing United Airlines (1,044 aircraft). Delta follows closely with 991 jets, while Southwest operates 810 Boeing 737s. Among non-U.S. carriers, China Southern Airlines leads with around 850 aircraft.
American’s 1,000th aircraft isn’t just a delivery—it’s a statement of scale, ambition, and commitment to premium long-haul travel.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, dallasnews.com