Codeshare flights: how they work and what to know

Operating carrier and marketing carrier

The operating carrier is the airline that physically manages the aircraft and crew: it is this airline, not necessarily the name printed on your ticket, that you should contact for physical check-in and special assistance requests. The marketing carrier is simply the airline from which you purchased the ticket.

Baggage and rights in case of delay

Baggage rules for carry-on and checked baggage normally follow those of the operating carrier, so it is worth checking them on its website even if the ticket was purchased elsewhere. For delays and cancellations, European regulation 261/2004 places the responsibility for refunds, rebooking and assistance on the operating carrier, regardless of which airline sold the ticket.

How to recognize a codeshare

The "Operated by" text on the booking confirmation or boarding pass indicates the actual operating carrier: checking this before arriving at the airport avoids showing up at the wrong counter, especially in large hubs where partner airlines occupy different terminals, a situation also described in our guide to physical check-in at the airport.

Always check the "Operated by" text on the booking or boarding pass: it is the only way to know for certain which counter to approach and which baggage rules apply.