Originally Posted by tjl
What is the purpose of code sharing, as opposed to simply offering an itinerary with flights or segments on different (partner) airlines? Since the code sharing airlines are partners, frequent flyer mileage collection should not be a problem for the same flights labeled under the airlines operating them, as opposed to code share airline names.
My understanding is that it is for ease of booking. Airlines don't generally give access to each other's computer systems, so code-sharing allows one airline to book you all the way through. Otherwise, the passenger would have to call multiple airlines to book their flights. I think code-sharing is a great idea, but I agree with the other posters that it's extremely confusing at the airport. Some sort of better communication system is definitely in order.