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Franklin Barbecue Takes Flight with American Airlines

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/09 .. arbecue-takes-flight-with-american-airlines.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, January 9th 2026 at 16:49 GMT by Food & Wine

Dallas, TX - January 9th, 2026 - In a move set to redefine in-flight dining, American Airlines announced today a groundbreaking partnership with Austin's legendary Franklin Barbecue. Beginning February 1st, 2026, passengers traveling in first and business class on select routes will have the unique opportunity to savor Aaron Franklin's world-renowned brisket...at 30,000 feet.

For years, Franklin Barbecue has been synonymous with long lines, sold-out days, and arguably the best barbecue in the world. Founded in 2009, the Austin institution has cultivated a devoted following built on a dedication to traditional smoking techniques and exceptional quality. The restaurant's brisket, known for its tender texture and smoky flavor, routinely appears on "best of" lists, making it a culinary pilgrimage for barbecue enthusiasts globally. Until now, accessing this Texas treasure meant bracing for hours-long waits in the Austin sun. This partnership dramatically changes that.

The initial rollout will focus on flights between Austin (AUS) and New York (JFK), as well as Austin (AUS) and Dallas (DFW). Passengers on these routes traveling in premium cabins will be offered the "Franklin Barbecue Brisket Sandwich," complete with a side of creamy coleslaw and crisp pickles. While American Airlines has offered regionally-inspired menus on select routes, this marks the first time a nationally celebrated, limited-production barbecue operation has extended its reach to the skies.

"We're always looking for ways to elevate the travel experience for our customers, and this partnership with Franklin Barbecue will do just that," stated Brian Znotins, American's Vice President of Network Planning. "Texas barbecue is a beloved culinary tradition, and we're thrilled to bring a taste of it to our passengers." The airline anticipates the offering will be a significant draw for travelers, particularly those originating from or connecting through Texas, and those seeking a unique culinary experience.

But why now, and why American Airlines? For Aaron Franklin, the decision to expand beyond the brick-and-mortar restaurant wasn't taken lightly. "We've been approached about expanding our business for years, but we've always been hesitant," Franklin explained. "We wanted to make sure that if we did expand, we did it in a way that would maintain the quality and integrity of our barbecue." This rigorous approach to brand preservation has been a hallmark of Franklin Barbecue's success, and a key factor in their decision-making process. Franklin emphasized that American Airlines demonstrated a commitment to handling the delicate process of preparing and serving their barbecue with the care it deserves.

Logistical challenges were significant. Replicating the low-and-slow smoking process that defines Franklin Barbecue's flavor profile on a large scale, while ensuring food safety and consistency in an airborne environment, required extensive collaboration between the restaurant and American Airlines' catering teams. Details remain scarce on exactly how the brisket will be prepared and transported, but sources suggest a combination of pre-smoking and final finishing techniques will be employed to guarantee quality.

This partnership isn't just about serving a delicious sandwich; it's about showcasing a piece of Texan culture. Barbecue isn't merely food in Texas; it's a social event, a tradition, and a source of local pride. American Airlines is banking on this cultural resonance, hoping to attract customers who appreciate authentic regional cuisine.

Industry analysts predict this move could spur similar collaborations between airlines and other highly-regarded, regionally-focused restaurants. If successful, we could see a future where in-flight dining is less about utilitarian meals and more about curated culinary experiences. The success of the initial routes will likely dictate the expansion of the Franklin Barbecue offering to other American Airlines hubs and routes. Passengers eager to experience this novel offering are advised to book flights on the specified routes promptly, as demand is expected to be high.