Flag carrier

A flag carrier is an airline or shipping company that is owned or supported by the national government of its home country. It is typically designated as the national airline and has the country in its name.

For example, British Airways (BA) is the flag carrier of the United Kingdom and operates out of its main hub at London Heathrow Airport. 

Flag carriers have special benefits, for instance, direct access to government officials who can influence decisions regarding airport operations, such as securing favorable takeoff and landing slots in major cities across the country. They may also have a guaranteed market of passengers, like state employees who are required to use the airline for official travel.