Here's the rule as published on the website under "Info & Rules" -
What does this mean? It's not really all that complicated. All it means is that you (a potential VA CEO) are not allowed to use the name, logo, paint scheme, or any other copyrighted or trademarked item used by a real world airline. This includes the usage of a real world airline's slogan or catchphrase, as these are also typically trademarked, thus there are legal repricussions for using them without permission.You're not allowed to use real airline names on FlyNET. Just be creative.
What if you want to use a real world airline's name and likeness? Well, you need to contact the airline and get, in writing, a letter stating that your VA has permission to use the name and likeness of the airline in question. Several airlines are known for giving these out almost carte blanche (without restriction) and others are known for issuing cease and desist orders against anyone who even attempts to start a VA that looks even remotely like theirs. It's up to you to know what the particular airline you wish to model is like.
So, you get permission, what next? Well, you need to contact Konny (info@flynet.en-studios.de) and he will give you the information on how to send him a copy of the letter authorizing your VA to use the real world airline's intellectual property. Once he has that, you're free to use FlyNET without restrictions. If you don't have that permission and Konny doesn't have a copy of the letter, then you will unfortunately be removed from the system, so please be aware.
Can I replicate the fleet of a real airline? Yes and no. You can certainly use the same types and numbers of those types of aircraft. However, you cannot use the exact same registrations of the aircraft the real-world airline's planes use. This can be seen as copying as well, and can result in legal action.
Can I replicate the timetable (routes) of a real airline? Absolutely! There is nothing keeping you from using the same flight number, times, and city pairs as the real world airline. That information is public knowledge, so there's nothing keeping you from doing it. However, I'd suggest that if you're using a real world airline's timetable, come up with a unique flight numbering system from theirs just so people don't think that you're just copying their information. If your flight numbers are different, it's less likely people will be able to tell what airline you copied.
I hope that's clear as mud for everyone. Have fun and thanks for choosing FlyNET!