American Airlines has announced plans to launch a new transatlantic route linking the U.S. East Coast with northern Portugal, adding Porto to its long-haul network in summer 2027.
The airline intends to operate daily, seasonal nonstop flights between Philadelphia and Porto, subject to final government approval. The move further reinforces the carrier’s strategy of expanding its European footprint while using new-generation aircraft to open thinner long-haul routes.
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, has grown in popularity among international travelers thanks to its UNESCO-listed historic center, colorful tiled architecture and deep ties to the country’s wine culture. Located at the mouth of the Douro River, the city also serves as a gateway to river cruises and vineyard tours through the Douro Valley, making it a natural complement to American’s existing service to Lisbon.
A New Market Enabled by the A321XLR
The new Philadelphia–Porto service will be operated using the Airbus A321XLR, a long-range, single-aisle aircraft that has become central to American’s international growth plans. The aircraft will be fitted with the airline’s latest Flagship Suites business class cabin, offering 20 private suites with sliding doors, lie-flat seats and upgraded bedding designed to improve rest on overnight transatlantic flights.
Beyond the premium cabin, the aircraft will also feature Premium Economy and Main Cabin seating, allowing American to cater to a broad mix of leisure travelers heading to Portugal during the busy summer season. The A321XLR’s range and efficiency allow the airline to serve destinations like Porto profitably without relying on larger widebody aircraft, opening new possibilities across Europe.
According to the airline, Porto fits precisely the type of market the A321XLR was designed to unlock – popular with travelers, but traditionally underserved by nonstop U.S. routes. The aircraft’s entry into service has already enabled American to rethink its route map and extend its reach deeper into Europe.
Strengthening Philadelphia as a Transatlantic Hub
The Porto announcement is also part of a broader effort to grow Philadelphia into a major transatlantic gateway. In recent years, American has steadily added long-haul routes from the city, positioning it as a key hub for connecting traffic from across the United States to Europe.
New nonstop services from Philadelphia to Edinburgh and Milan launched in 2025, and additional routes to Budapest and Prague are scheduled to begin in 2026. The addition of Porto in 2027 continues this trajectory, giving travelers more direct access to secondary European cities without routing through larger hubs.
On the ground, premium passengers departing Philadelphia will benefit from American’s Flagship Lounge, which offers dining, shower suites and dedicated relaxation areas designed to enhance the pre-flight experience. Combined with the onboard upgrades of the A321XLR, the new Porto route reflects a broader push to pair network expansion with improved passenger comfort.
As Portugal continues to attract growing numbers of U.S. visitors, the new Porto service positions American Airlines to capture demand beyond Lisbon, while further cementing Philadelphia’s role in its long-haul strategy.