Definition of

Airline

American Airlines

Airlines transport passengers to numerous cities around the world.

An airline or airline is a company dedicated to the transfer of cargo and/or passengers on aircraft . In general, these companies have a fleet of aircraft with different characteristics.

It is important to keep in mind that there are different types of airlines. While some regularly operate certain routes , there are others that work based on specific orders and agreements with their clients, carrying out what are known as charter flights .

Types of airlines

There are different types of airlines depending on the service they provide, the distances they cover and other characteristics. A first major differentiation can be made between passenger airlines and cargo airlines , although many companies offer both services.

Passenger airlines usually operate regular flights between different points. The traveler must adapt to the airline's frequencies and schedules, purchasing the tickets that are most convenient for them. Cargo airlines operate similarly, although they transport merchandise and packages.

A flag airline , meanwhile, is owned by a State or has certain privileges granted to it by the authorities. Generally, these airlines enjoy tax benefits and receive subsidies or subsidies for their operation, which is considered strategic. Aerolíneas Argentinas , Boliviana de Aviación , Air Canada , British Airways and Air India are some examples of flag airlines.

interior of an airplane

Air travel can have different features and amenities depending on the airline.

The low cost

Among the groups of airline companies we find low-cost or low-cost airlines, also known by the English expression low cost . These companies remove or charge extra for various services that traditional airlines conventionally offer to all their passengers.

The key to the business of these airlines lies in cutting costs. This allows them to have lower rates than the rest of the companies, although this reduction has an impact on user comforts.

Typically, low-cost airlines operate a single type of plane and their tickets do not include food or snacks. They also charge separately for the transfer of suitcases and even the use of blankets or pillows. The Irish Ryanair , the English easyJet , the Argentine Flybondi , the American Southwest Airlines and the Czech SmartWings are low-cost airlines.

Airline alliances

Many airlines are grouped in airline alliances , born from the signing of cooperation agreements. In this way, the different companies optimize their operation and make it easier for passengers to make connections .

The key to airline alliances are codeshare agreements, through which airlines operate certain routes jointly. Airline alliances also allow their members to share facilities and offices .

Oneworld (which includes American Airlines , British Airways , Iberia and Qatar Airways , among other airlines), Star Alliance ( Air Canada , United Airlines , Lufthansa , Air China ) and SkyTeam ( Aerolíneas Argentinas , Delta Air Lines , Air France , KLM ) They are the main airline alliances in the world . Together they operate thousands of flights a day, transporting an enormous number of travelers globally.