Classifications Airlines are classified according to their size of operation. Major airlines encompass the most common types that travelers use because they have the greatest geographical reach. To be considered a major airline, an airline must have at least 1 billion dollars in revenue. They usually operate with between 130 to 450 seats per aircraft. Some even have aircraft that can travel 5,000 miles before refueling.
National airlines are more limited to regional markets.
A national airline can have between 100 million to 1 billion in revenue. National airlines usually operate aircraft with a seat count between 100 to 150. They operate short-haul trips because of their limited geographical reach. These are unscheduled service to various destinations. This type of service is most common with professional sports teams, the military , and often tour operators.