A regional airline is a smaller airline that primarily operates short-haul flights within a specific region. These airlines often connect smaller cities to larger hubs, making air travel more accessible for passengers in less populated areas. They typically use smaller aircraft, which are more suited for shorter distances and lower passenger volumes. Regional airlines often partner with major carriers through codeshare agreements, allowing them to offer a wider range of destinations. This collaboration helps enhance the overall travel experience for passengers, as they can book a single ticket that includes flights operated by both the regional airline and the larger carrier, such as American Airlines or Delta Air Lines.