This past week, American Airlines began operating a new transatlantic route between Chicago O'hare and Moscow, Russia. This makes American Airlines the first American based airline to offer a direct flight Chicago to Moscow.

The new route marks a change in strategy for American, which because of the troubles facing all airlines right now, is trying to diversify by expanding to more lucrative international and transatlantic routes.

The flight will feature a Russian speaking cabin crew and vodka and wine will be served. The route is expected to be popular as there is a large Russian community in the Chicagoland area.

The flights will be daily and will cross a distance of nearly 10,000 miles and take about 10-11 hours depending on tailwind speeds.