What Is a Codeshare Flight?
A codeshare flight is a flight sold under more than one airline flight number even though one airline operates the aircraft. This is why the flight number on your booking can sometimes differ from the number shown on airport displays.
Marketing airline vs. operating airline
The marketing airline sells the flight under its own code. The operating airline is the carrier actually flying the aircraft. Your itinerary or boarding pass will often identify the operating carrier with wording such as “operated by.”
Which flight number should I use to find my gate?
Start with the flight number on your itinerary. If the result is unclear or the airport display shows a different number, look for the operating airline and its flight number. The operating flight is especially useful when checking live terminal, gate and status information.
Why do airport screens show a different flight number?
Airport displays may emphasize the operating flight while your reservation emphasizes the airline that sold your ticket. Both numbers can refer to the same physical flight.
Does a codeshare change my terminal or gate?
The aircraft uses the terminal and gate assigned to the operating flight. Do not assume the marketing airline’s usual terminal applies. Check the specific flight before traveling and again at the airport.
What happens during a connection?
Each segment can have its own operating airline and flight number. Check the next segment separately so you are following the correct terminal, gate and status for the connecting flight.
What if I cannot find the flight?
Check the travel date, airline code and flight number, then look for the operating-carrier information on your itinerary. Airline staff can also confirm which flight number should be used for airport and boarding information.
Keep planning: How to Find Your Airport Gate Why Airport Gates Change What to Do If Your Airport Gate Changes
What Travelers Should Know
One flight can have multiple numbers
In a codeshare, one airline operates the aircraft while partner airlines sell seats on that same flight under their own flight numbers.
Why the operating carrier matters
The operating airline is important for day-of-travel details such as check-in location and current operational status.
How to search it
Use the operating flight number when possible and confirm the origin, destination and departure time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a codeshare flight?
A codeshare is one flight sold under flight numbers from two or more partner airlines even though one airline actually operates the aircraft.
Which airline should I check on travel day?
Check the operating carrier for the most useful day-of-travel information such as check-in, flight status and gate details.
Why does my booking show two flight numbers?
One can be the marketing airline's codeshare number and the other the operating airline's flight number for the same aircraft.
Plan Your Trip
Use your flight details to check status and gate information, then continue with airport, hotel and rental-car planning.