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American Airlines unveiled a fresh new look for its planes in the form of a stylized U.S. flag on the tail of its aircraft as well as a more modern rendering of its signature eagle toward the front of its jets.

Why American had to Apologize

First Logo Change Since 1968

This is the first image update for American in 45 years, and the timing is interesting. The beleaguered airline – soon to emerge from bankruptcy – hasn’t let talk about a possible merger with US Airways derail plans to show off this fresh new look which incorporates bold design and bright red, white and blue colors. It should be pointed out that the tails of US Airways aircraft also sport a stylized flag logo.

Crunch Time for American – To Merge or Not

Below is part of the new livery as it appears toward the front of American’s planes:

Rick Seaney: “Breath of Fresh Air”

Air travel analyst Rick Seaney likes the new logo, but mostly what it represents. “I live in Dallas – headquarters for American Airlines and one of the area’s largest employers – so to me, the airline emerging from bankruptcy with a new look, new aircraft and hopefully a profitable new business model is a breath of fresh air,” said Seaney. “The potential merger with US Airways still has everyone a bit nervous – not hard when you’re in bankruptcy – that is likely to be sorted out in the next few months. My hope for American, and for flyers, is that we continue to have a vibrant, competitive marketplace for air travel.”

Pilots: Logo is Fine, Merger is Better

As we wait for design critics to weigh in, American Airlines pilot and union representative Dennis Tajer told FareCompare, “A new paint job is fine” but then added that the airline “needs more than cosmetic changes to compete with Delta and United, and simply put, it needs to merge with US Airways now.” The union and its unhappy pilots have been pushing for a merger for months now. American’s CEO told employees earlier this month they’d learn more about such plans in a matter of weeks.