The airline also has bolstered winter routes to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
American Airlines is making it easier than ever to fly to Europe next year, launching four new routes to major European cities in the airline’s largest transatlantic expansion since the pandemic.
From Philadelphia, American Airlines will fly nonstop to Copenhagen, Nice, and Naples every day, starting on June 6, May 6, and June 5, respectively. American Airlines will also fly a daily nonstop route from Dallas-Fort Worth to Barcelona starting June 5.
“American is thrilled to add three new European destinations,” Brian Znotins, American’s Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning, said of the announcement on Thursday. “New service from Philadelphia and expanded transatlantic service from Chicago and Dallas-Fort Worth will offer customers convenient one-stop access from more than 200 unique destinations across the U.S. to Europe next summer.
The carrier will also bring back nonstop flights between Chicago and Venice. And it will also bump up the start dates of several seasonal routes to Europe (including Chicago and New York to Athens), as well as transition some of its most popular seasonal routes into year-round routes (including Charlotte to Madrid, Dallas-Fort Worth to Rome, and Philadelphia to Barcelona)
If you’re ready to plan your 2024 summer vacation, tickets for the new European routes go on sale on Aug. 20. But if you’re looking to take a vacation a little sooner, American Airlines is also expanding its winter schedule to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Though it’s not adding new routes, it’s increasing the frequency of some of its most popular ones, including Dallas-Fort Worth to Buenos Aires; Miami to Bridgetown, Barbados; and Charlotte to Eleuthera, Bahamas.
American Airlines Expands International Routes
As the travel industry rebounds from the global pandemic, American Airlines is taking significant steps to enhance its global network. In its largest transatlantic expansion since the pandemic, American Airlines is adding four new nonstop routes to major European cities in 2024, while simultaneously boosting its winter travel offerings to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Latin America. This comes as part of the airline’s strategy to meet growing demand for international travel, particularly among U.S. travelers eager to explore more destinations as restrictions ease and global travel picks up again.
A Closer Look at the New European Routes
Starting next summer, travelers will have greater access to popular European destinations, with new daily nonstop flights departing from Philadelphia and Dallas-Fort Worth.
Philadelphia to Copenhagen (starting June 6): Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, is a vibrant mix of modern innovation and rich history. Known for its picturesque canals, colorful Nyhavn harbor, and the famous Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen is a gateway to Scandinavia. The city’s bike-friendly culture, world-renowned restaurants like Noma, and historic landmarks like Rosenborg Castle make it an attractive destination for American travelers.
Philadelphia to Nice (starting May 6): Situated on the glamorous French Riviera, Nice offers stunning Mediterranean views, luxurious beaches, and easy access to nearby destinations like Monaco and Cannes. Known for its Promenade des Anglais, the Old Town with its charming narrow streets, and an abundance of art museums, Nice is an ideal summer getaway for those seeking a mix of relaxation and culture.
Philadelphia to Naples (starting June 5): Naples, Italy, serves as a gateway to southern Italy and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. It’s known for its rich history, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and, of course, its world-famous Neapolitan pizza. Visitors can explore nearby Pompeii, the islands of Capri and Ischia, or take in the bustling charm of Naples itself. The addition of this route offers an easier way for American tourists to explore this iconic region of Italy.
Dallas-Fort Worth to Barcelona (starting June 5): Barcelona, Spain, with its unique blend of historic and modern architecture, is one of Europe’s top travel destinations. From Gaudí’s surreal Sagrada Familia to the lively La Rambla, the city’s dynamic atmosphere attracts millions of tourists each year. The new direct route from Dallas-Fort Worth will offer easier access for U.S. travelers to one of Spain’s most exciting cities.
The Return and Expansion of Popular Seasonal Routes
In addition to the new routes, American Airlines is reinstating its popular nonstop service between Chicago and Venice, an important addition for travelers looking to visit one of Italy’s most romantic cities. Venice, with its iconic canals, gondolas, and historic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica, has long been a favorite for both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors to Italy.
Moreover, the airline is extending the operating dates for several seasonal European routes, allowing travelers to enjoy these destinations earlier in the year. This includes services from Chicago and New York to Athens, Greece. Athens has grown in popularity as a gateway to the Greek islands and for its deep historical significance as the cradle of Western civilization. By offering earlier access to these routes, American Airlines is ensuring travelers can enjoy Europe’s wonders for a longer period in 2024.
American Airlines is also transforming some of its seasonal routes into year-round services, such as Charlotte to Madrid, Dallas-Fort Worth to Rome, and Philadelphia to Barcelona. These changes reflect a growing trend of demand for year-round European travel as more tourists seek to visit popular destinations outside the peak summer months, allowing for more flexible travel plans.
Expanded Winter Routes to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Latin America
For travelers looking to escape the cold winter months, American Airlines is also enhancing its offerings to warmer destinations. Although the airline isn’t launching new routes for its winter schedule, it is increasing the frequency of several of its most popular flights.
Dallas-Fort Worth to Buenos Aires: Argentina’s vibrant capital is a cultural hub known for its European-inspired architecture, rich tango history, and world-class cuisine. Increasing flight frequency to Buenos Aires will cater to the growing number of tourists and business travelers looking to explore South America’s southernmost major city.
Miami to Bridgetown, Barbados: With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively festivals, Barbados continues to be a top Caribbean destination for Americans. The added frequency of flights to Bridgetown makes it easier for tourists to enjoy this island paradise, whether for a short getaway or an extended vacation.
Charlotte to Eleuthera, Bahamas: Known for its pink sand beaches and tranquil environment, Eleuthera is an ideal escape for travelers seeking a more laid-back island experience. By boosting flight frequency to this less crowded destination, American Airlines is responding to growing interest in off-the-beaten-path locations in the Bahamas.
American Airlines’ expansion is part of a broader trend in the aviation industry as airlines seek to restore and even surpass their pre-pandemic networks. As travel demand surges, airlines are positioning themselves to capitalize on both leisure and business travel. The airline’s focus on European cities, in particular, reflects the growing interest in international travel, especially to culturally rich and historically significant destinations.
The decision to increase service to popular winter destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean also highlights the importance of these regions for American tourists seeking warm-weather escapes. By offering more flight options, American Airlines is aiming to meet the rising demand from vacationers and provide greater flexibility in travel planning.
Planning Your Next Trip with American Airlines
If you’re already dreaming about your 2024 summer vacation, tickets for American Airlines’ new European routes went on sale starting August 20, making it easier to plan ahead. Whether you’re envisioning a trip to the cultural hubs of Barcelona and Copenhagen or the picturesque coastlines of Nice and Naples, the airline’s new routes offer exciting opportunities for exploration.
For those looking to escape winter early, American Airlines’ expanded winter schedule to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Latin America is an excellent option. From the historic streets of Buenos Aires to the serene beaches of the Bahamas, these routes will provide travelers with more ways to enjoy their favorite warm-weather getaways.
With these new expansions, American Airlines is positioning itself as a top choice for international travelers seeking convenience, variety, and an enhanced flying experience.