Brisket, ribs and sausage from Pecan Lodge.
Catherine Downes
American Airlines just rebranded the American dream. Gone are the days of the white picket fence and a stable job. As of now, it’s a Pecan Lodge barbecue platter at 35,000 feet.
Dallas-based American Airlines announced last week that the new year would bring in a new partnership with Dallas’ very own Pecan Lodge. The Deep Ellum restaurant has been recognized by the Food Network, The New York Times and Travel + Leisure for its Central Texas-style barbecue.
Beginning in February, passengers on flights from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) can enjoy specials from Pecan Lodge.
Smoke in First Class Only
What’s the catch? The collaboration is exclusive to first-class passengers.
“As we celebrate America’s centennial anniversary in 2026, we’re looking forward to delighting our customers in new ways that honor unique regional tastes, beginning right here in our home state through one of the most beloved barbecue restaurants in Texas,” said Rhonda Crawford, American’s SVP of Customer Experience Design and Strategy, in a news release. “Our customers deserve nothing but the best, and Pecan Lodge is certainly that.”
This collaboration is one of many that American Airlines has crafted to elevate its customer experience. It has recently partnered with Champagne Bollinger and Lavazza coffee to serve in both lounges and during flights. Free Wi-Fi for AAdvantage members will roll out this month, sponsored by another North Texas brand, AT&T.
It appears the barbecue offering will rotate monthly. The Pecan Lodge barbecue platter is launching in February with smoked brisket and smoked sausage with mac and cheese, coleslaw and a side of pickles, onions and barbecue sauce.
The March offering will be a smoked, chopped brisket sandwich on brioche with roasted green beans, potato salad and a side of pickles, onions and barbecue sauce.
Either option will only be available for preorder beginning Sunday, Jan. 11, through aa.com or American’s mobile app.
As for the rest of us: chicken or beef?