notitur.com August 24, 2026

Airlines

Code-share

A code-share is the deal where two airlines sell the same flight under their own codes, though only one operates it. It lets one carrier offer destinations it does not fly and the other fill more of the plane. It is the practical backbone of the big airline alliances.

Example You buy a ticket from a European airline and its partner flies the final leg under a code-share.

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FAQ

What is a code-share in aviation?
A code-share is an agreement between two airlines to sell the same flight under their own flight codes, even though only one airline operates the plane. For example, Delta may sell a flight under its DL code that is actually operated by Air France.
How does a code-share agreement work?
The operating airline manages the aircraft and crew, while the marketing airline sells seats under its own flight code. A passenger makes a single booking and checks in with the airline that issued the ticket, even if the plane belongs to a different carrier.
What is the purpose of a code-share and how is it different from a regular flight?
Its purpose is to let an airline expand its route network without operating flights itself and to help the operating airline fill more seats. Unlike a regular flight, in a code-share the ticket is issued by a company that does not fly the plane, but passengers can still earn miles in that airline's loyalty program.

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