Are you a sports enthusiast considering traveling with American Airlines? If so, it is important to know the airline’s policy on carrying sports equipment. Here is a list of equipment that AA allows on board and guidelines for carrying it:
Antlers
American Airlines allows Antlers to be carried as checked baggage for a fee of $150, provided they are properly packaged and within size limits. Antlers should be dried and all tissue removed.
Archery
This equipment, including bows, arrows and quivers, is permitted as checked baggage. The bow should be packed in a hard case, while arrows and quivers can be packed in a soft case.
Checked baggage fees apply knowing that the maximum weight and dimensions are as follows: 50Ib/23kg and 126in / 320cm. Overweight or oversize charges apply if exceeded.
Baseball bats
They are only permitted as checked baggage.
Bicycle
Bicycles are permitted as checked baggage, but must be properly packed in a hard case or cardboard bicycle box.
Bowling
Bowling equipment (maximum three), including balls and bags, is permitted as checked baggage. The material must be packed in a rigid case.
Camping equipment
Camping gear, such as tents, sleeping bags and stoves, are allowed as checked baggage. However, fuel for stoves cannot be transported.
Curling equipment
Including brooms and stones, is permitted as checked baggage.
Fencing equipment
This equipment, including foil, epee and saber, is permitted as checked baggage. The material must be packed in a rigid case.
Fishing
Fishing tackle, including rods, reels and tackle boxes, is allowed as checked baggage.
Golf clubs
Are permitted as both checked and carry-on baggage.
Hang gliders
Only one piece of equipment is allowed as checked baggage by paying a fee of $150. However, American Airlines requires the glider to be packed in a hard case.
Hockey, cricket and lacrosse equipment
The material must be packed in a rigid case.
Javelin throw and pole vault
Only one piece of equipment is allowed as checked baggage and must be packed in a hard case.
Oars and paddles
The material must be packed in a rigid case.
Parachute
Parachutes are allowed in the hold and in the cabin as well, but in the cabin they must not contain any gas or other dangerous material.
Scuba gear (with tanks)
It is authorized in the hold by paying a fee of $150. However, the tanks are empty and the equipment is properly packed to prevent damage.
Snorkeling equipment (without tanks)
Scuba diving equipment is allowed as checked baggage. However, American Airlines requires that equipment be properly packaged to prevent damage.
Shooting equipment
Shooting equipment, including firearms, is permitted as checked baggage. However, the airline requires firearms to be unloaded and properly packed in a hard case.
Skateboards
It is allowed both as checked baggage and as hand baggage. However, in carry-on luggage, the skateboard cannot exceed 24 inches in length.
Skis (snow/water) and snowboards
Skis and snowboards are allowed as checked baggage. However, American Airlines requires the equipment to be properly packed in a hard case.
Water sports boards
Including surfboards, wakeboards and paddleboards, are permitted in the hold.
Tennis, badminton, squash or racquetball
They can be carried as checked baggage
Windsurf
A board, a mast and a boom and a sail are authorized in the hold knowing that two of these three items are considered as a single piece of equipment (for $150).
Pack your sports equipment appropriately
American Airlines has specific guidelines for packing sports equipment. Be sure to follow these guidelines to prevent your equipment from being damaged in transit.
Check-in your sports equipment
Upon arrival at the airport, check in your equipment at the designated counter. The airline may ask you to complete a special form to declare your equipment. If your hardware is oversized or overweight, you may need to pay additional fees.
Collect your sports equipment at your destination
Once your flight has landed, go to the oversize baggage area to collect your equipment. Be sure to check it for damage before leaving the airport. If you find any damage, report it to the airline immediately.