American Airlines has entered a multiyear partnership with the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC, becoming an Official Airline Partner for both organizations. The agreement includes exclusive travel benefits and experiences for fans, along with promotional activities during football games and soccer matches at Bank of America Stadium.
As part of this collaboration, members of American’s AAdvantage loyalty program will have opportunities to win prizes such as giveaways, sweepstakes to away games, and VIP experiences with the Panthers and Charlotte FC. They can also use their miles to access games.
The airline will be visible on gamedays through in-stadium advertisements, team websites and apps, as well as participation in both teams’ away travel series. This series will include graphics showing miles traveled during the season and behind-the-scenes content from American Airlines across social and digital platforms.
This partnership adds the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC to American’s growing sports sponsorship portfolio, which already features the Charlotte Sports Foundation. According to American Airlines, this move is part of its ongoing investment in local communities.
“At American, we’re passionate about bringing people closer to the moments that matter most — whether it’s the joy of cheering on their favorite team or the unforgettable energy of a live event,” said Caroline Clayton, American’s Chief Marketing Officer. “As Charlotte’s hometown airline, we’re honored to deepen our roots in the Queen City as an Official Airline Partner of the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte FC, and the Charlotte Sports Foundation. It’s a privilege to celebrate and support the vibrant sports spirit that brings this community together.”
Eric Sudol, Chief Revenue Officer at Tepper Sports & Entertainment added: “We’re thrilled to welcome American Airlines as a Proud Partner of the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC. With more than 15,500 employees in the city and its position as the largest airline at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, American is deeply rooted in our community. This partnership not only strengthens the connection between two of Charlotte’s most beloved sports franchises and one of its largest employers—it also creates exciting opportunities to deliver exclusive travel benefits and unforgettable experiences for fans, while elevating the energy at Bank of America Stadium.”
American Airlines will also act as partner airline for international trips involving staff or fan group travel packages.
To launch their partnership on August 27th at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), 10,000 co-branded rally towels will be distributed by representatives from all three organizations.
The Carolina Panthers were established as an NFL franchise in 1993. Since then they have won six division titles—including three consecutive NFC South titles from 2013-2015—and have played in two Super Bowls. The organization prioritizes serving both North Carolina and South Carolina through various community partnerships each year.
