by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 9:20 AM ET, Thu January 8, 2026
American Airlines has partnered with the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals to celebrate the OBAP’s 50th anniversary.
As the airline kicks off its own 100th year anniversary in 2026, its title sponsorship of OBAP brings awareness to and celebrates the organization’s contributions towards making aviation more equitable.
American Airlines made history in 1964 when it hired Captain David E. Harris, the first Black commercial airline pilot. Harris then went on to establish OBAP with others ten years later, committed to opening more doors for underrepresented communities in aviation.
“Captain David Harris’ groundbreaking achievement in 1964 forever changed the face of aviation and ignited a legacy of progress that still shapes our industry today,” said OBAP Board Chair Tennessee Garvey. “This partnership with American Airlines is more than a celebration of where we’ve been — it is a promise to accelerate where we are going. Together, we are working to ensure that opportunity reaches every corner of aerospace, and that the next 50 years are defined by access, equity and boundless possibility.”
The partnership between OBAP and American Airlines begins on January 13 at the Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport, the site of OBAP’s first meeting, with an intimate gathering of industry leaders and other guests. OBAP’s 50th anniversary conference on August 12-14 will feature a documentary premiere, Hall of Fame induction, awards gala and more.
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