airline

[ air-lahyn ]

noun

1. Aeronautics.
   1. a system furnishing air transport, usually scheduled, between specified points.
   2. the airplanes, airports, etc., of such a system.
   3. Often airlines. a company that owns or operates such a system.
2. a direct line; beeline.
3. an airhose used to pipe air to a deep-sea diver, pneumatic drill, etc.

adjective

1. of or on an airline.

airline

/ ˈɛəˌlaɪn /

noun

1. 1. a system or organization that provides scheduled flights for passengers or cargo
   2. ( as modifier )

      an airline pilot

2. a hose or tube carrying air under pressure
3. a beeline

Word History and Origins

Origin of airline¹

First recorded in 1910–15; air ¹ + line ¹

Example Sentences

In 2012, Washington starred in “Flight,” a film about an alcoholic airline pilot whose drinking habits are thrust into the spotlight after a miraculous emergency landing renders him a hero.

From Los Angeles Times

Sources within the airline suggest the situation is being brought under control, but there are concerns that delays this evening could have a knock-on effect on Tuesday's flights.

From BBC

It is considered a pioneer in budget flying, forgoing many amenities that are standard on other airlines in order to keep ticket prices low.

From BBC

Those incidents prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to issue a 30-day ban on US airlines flying to Haiti.

From BBC

Social media users voiced concern and disgust that she didn’t tell the airline what had happened so they could disinfect the seat for the next occupant.

From Los Angeles Times