American Airlines Partners with OBAP to Celebrate 50 Years of Advancing Diversity in Aerospace

Published on January 8, 2026

The Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) has proudly partnered with American Airlines to celebrate the landmark 50th anniversary of OBAP’s founding. As the official Title Sponsor of the anniversary celebrations, American Airlines joins OBAP in recognizing five decades of championing diversity and creating opportunities in aviation for underrepresented communities. This significant partnership comes as American Airlines also celebrates its own monumental milestone — its centennial year in 2026, marking 100 years of connecting people and places across the globe.

“American Airlines is proud to sponsor OBAP’s 50th anniversary celebration — and to partner every day — as we have a shared mission of creating pathways for future generations to thrive in aviation,” said David Seymour, American’s Chief Operating Officer. “As we celebrate our centennial year and look Forever Forwardrward^SM, we recognize that progress happens when we invest in people and partnerships that strengthen our industry. This milestone is not just about honoring history — it’s about building a future where talent and opportunity soar together.”

The collaboration between OBAP and American Airlines is especially poignant, reflecting a shared history of breaking down barriers in the aviation industry. American Airlines made history in 1964 when it hired Captain David E. Harris as the first Black commercial airline pilot, a moment that paved the way for greater diversity in aviation. Ten years later, Harris, along with fellow trailblazers, helped establish OBAP, originally known as the Organization of Black Airline Pilots, with the mission of increasing representation in aerospace. The organization has since expanded its scope, continuing to break down barriers and create a supportive network for aspiring pilots, engineers, technicians, and other aerospace professionals.

The official launch of the partnership will take place on January 13 at the Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport, a venue with special significance, as it hosted OBAP’s very first meeting. This intimate gathering will bring together OBAP founders, industry leaders, and special guests to honor the legacy of those who have contributed to the organization’s success. The celebration will culminate in a grand conference from August 12-14, 2026, in Chicago. The conference will feature a variety of exciting events, including the premiere of a documentary about OBAP’s history, Hall of Fame inductions, an awards gala, and multiple youth engagement programs. Career development workshops and networking opportunities for aspiring aerospace professionals will also take center stage.

“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.” .”

As both organizations reflect on their rich histories — American Airlines’ century of flight and OBAP’s five decades of progress — this partnership symbolizes a commitment to continue advancing diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry. By working together, American Airlines and OBAP aim to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals and ensure that everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to pursue a career in this exciting field.

This collaboration stands as a powerful testament to the strides made in the industry and serves as a reminder that the journey of progress is ongoing. As American Airlines and OBAP celebrate their legacies, they are also united in their promise to keep pushing for further change, breaking down barriers, and inspiring future generations of aviation professionals.