American Airlines has announced the introduction of 15 new routes, set to launch in Spring and Summer of 2026, aimed at enhancing connectivity between smaller cities and major hubs. The Fort Worth, Texas-based airline’s expansion reflects a strategic focus on regional America, with the majority of the new routes originating from its key hubs.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, includes new year-round and seasonal routes, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to strengthening domestic connectivity. Notably, the airline will expand its presence in Lincoln, Nebraska, marking it as the 240th destination in the United States. Beginning June 4, 2026, American Airlines will operate daily flights from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Lincoln Airport (LNK) and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to LNK, both operating year-round.
Strengthening Chicago’s Network
The addition of the Lincoln routes bolsters American Airlines’ operations in Chicago, where it competes fiercely with United Airlines. The airline is set to offer over 500 daily departures from ORD by next Summer, further solidifying its position in the market. As part of this expansion, American Airlines will also acquire two new gates in Chicago, following the sale of gates by Spirit Airlines for approximately $30 million.
In addition to Lincoln, the airline will introduce routes from Chicago to Tri-Cities, Tennessee, and Erie, Pennsylvania, starting on May 21, 2026. Another new service to Roanoke, Virginia, will commence on June 4, 2026. Brian Znotins, Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning at American Airlines, emphasized the new routes’ role in providing “unmatched connectivity” across the United States.
New Routes from Key Hubs
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) will also see new service, with roundtrip flights to Madison, Wisconsin, and Nantucket, Massachusetts, beginning on June 18, 2026. The Madison route will operate year-round, while Nantucket service is seasonal.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) will launch a new year-round route to Columbia, Missouri, starting May 21, 2026. Miami International Airport (MIA) will introduce seasonal Saturday-only flights to Jackson, Mississippi, beginning March 14, 2026. Additionally, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) will gain seven new routes to various destinations, including Texas and Alaska, with most starting in early June.
American Airlines’ expansion into Lincoln represents a significant enhancement for local travelers, who will now have one-stop service to international destinations such as Athens, Cancun, Rome, and São Paulo via Chicago and Dallas/Fort Worth. While Breeze Airways and United Airlines currently serve Lincoln, American’s entry is expected to increase travel options for residents.
The new routes will primarily utilize regional aircraft through partnerships with Republic Airways and SkyWest Airlines, operating under the American Eagle brand. The only mainline service scheduled is the Summer seasonal route between Phoenix and Anchorage.
As American Airlines continues to invest in its network, these new routes aim to facilitate easier access to national parks and attractions across the Western United States and Mexico, enhancing travel opportunities for both leisure and business travelers.
