[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 66 (Wednesday, April 15, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S1781]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                     RECOGNIZING AMERICAN AIRLINES

 Mr. CRUZ. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and commend 
the employees of American Airlines on the remarkable occasion of its 
100th anniversary of service. For a century, American Airlines has 
played a pivotal role in connecting communities, strengthening the U.S. 
economy, and advancing the aviation industry at home and abroad. 
Headquartered in Fort Worth, TX, American Airlines plays a key role in 
driving the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area's rapid development. As one of 
the State's largest private employers, American Airlines contributes to 
economic activity, with a multiplier effect across tourism, trade, and 
local businesses.
  Today, the airline operates more than 6,000 daily flights, serving 
nearly 350 destinations across more than 60 countries, and safely 
transporting more than 200 million passengers each year. Throughout its 
history, American Airlines has been at the forefront of innovation and 
industry leadership. One example of the airline's ingenuity and 
leadership was the introduction of its AAdvantage program, the world's 
oldest and largest frequent-flyer program, which has transformed the 
way Americans travel, allowing millions to use its services and travel 
across the globe.
  American Airlines currently operates 10 airport hubs, the largest of 
which is at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. This hub drives 
Texas tourism, business travel, investment, and international 
connectivity, contributing billions of dollars annually to both the 
regional economy and the State of Texas.
  American Airlines has distinguished itself through a commitment to 
safety. It leads the industry in equipping its mainline fleet with 
Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast In (ADS-B In), enhancing 
pilots' situational awareness in the national airspace system. The 
airline's entire fleet of more than 300 Airbus A321 aircraft is 
equipped with ADS-B In, more than any other airline worldwide. Reaching 
100 years of continuous service is a milestone achieved by only a 
select few companies, and it is a testament to the vision, leadership, 
and hard work of the generations of employees who have made American 
Airlines what it is today.
  On behalf of the people of Texas and in my capacity as chairman of 
the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, I 
congratulate American Airlines' employees on this historic achievement 
and extend my best wishes to them for the company's continued success 
in Texas in the years ahead.

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