American Airlines Goes Green: Bidding Farewell to Plastic Straws in Cabins and Lounges

American Airlines Goes Green: Bidding Farewell to Plastic Straws in Cabins and Lounges

American Airlines Says Goodbye to Plastic Straws!

What’s Changing?

  • Airline Lounges: Starting this month, no more plastic napkins or stir sticks.
  • Onboard Service: Beginning in November, all drinks will come with biodegradable straws and wooden or bamboo stir sticks.
  • Flatware Upgrade: Lounges will switch to eco‑friendly flatware so you can sip, stir, and save the planet all at once.

Why the Switch?

“We’re cognizant of our impact on the environment and are committed to preserving our world for future travelers,” Jill Surdek, Vice President of Flight Service, told us. Plus, each year, the switch will slash over 71,000 pounds (32,200 kg) of plastic waste.

It’s a Global Mission

  • Alaska Airlines already announced its plan to replace plastic straws in May.
  • Starbucks Corp pledged to ditch plastic straws at all 28,000 locations by 2020.

What Comes Next?

American Airlines is leading the charge by not just talking about sustainability, but taking tangible steps—like swapping out plastic for green alternatives. The airline’s new choices promise a cleaner planet, one sip at a time.