FlightClaim
Home › GlossaryResearch snapshot: October 31, 2026
PLAIN-LANGUAGE TERMS

Operating carrier: Meaning for Flight Refunds and Claims

The airline that physically operates the flight. It can differ from the brand or code printed first on a codeshare ticket.

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Why it matters

A codeshare can put one airline’s code on a flight operated by another. Check the boarding record before choosing a claim form.

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Compare the applicable rule with your ticket and the airline’s written notice. You can also browse other flight-claim terms.

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This definition is a starting point. The rule and ticket terms for your flight still matter.