Our team of highly-trained bicycle travel scientists gives Lufthansa a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of C. A carry-on bag is included with all fare classes, and a checked bag with most classes, but that's about the only good thing we can say. Oversize and overweight fees are exorbitant - just about as high as they get. The bike fee is reasonable if you're only flying within Germany, but as soon as you fly anywhere else the rates skyrocket, as high as $287. The dimension limits for standard checked baggage are the same as most US carriers, so the only chance of avoiding outrageous fees is to have a small bike in the smallest possible bike case. You could also pick a different airline...
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on Lufthansa's website. (Updated 9/13/18)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
158 cm (62 linear inches) |
Oversize Fee |
$150 Within Europe / $300 Intercontinental |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$70 Within Europe / $150 Intercontinental |
General Baggage Fees |
|
|
1st Checked Bag |
Included with Economy / $16-$60 for Economy Light | |
2nd Checked Bag |
$80-$287 depending on route |
|
Carry-on |
Included |
|
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
$80-$287 depending on route |
|
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on Lufthansa actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. We have found that airline employees are often woefully misinformed about their own company's policies, so it can be helpful to bring a printed reference of any relevant policies, especially those regarding baggage allowances and fees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
Your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
]]>Our team of highly-trained bicycle travel scientists gives Air France a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of C. Air France is a good example of the trend toward more complexity and opacity in airline fees. Fees for extras vary widely and are dependent on route, fare class, and status. There are so many contingencies and exceptions that for many services it's hard to understand what you will pay. The bike fee of $150 for flights between North America and Europe is pretty standard, but Air France states that you must seek pre-approval to check a bike at least 48 hours in advance of departure. If you plan to try to skirt this requirement and fee, understand that if your bag is over 62 linear inches and the ticket agent notices, you might get stuck paying the $300 oversize fee. Air France posts a notice to passengers traveling with a bicycle who plan to continue their travel by rail: SNCF, the French national rail company, sets maximum dimensions of bike containers at 82 linear inches.
Air France's base fares are actually quite reasonable and hand luggage is always included. If you are considering purchasing an Economy Light fare, think carefully about how much luggage you will need to take with you. A checked bag is not included with Economy Light, and the price difference between Economy and Economy Light is often not as much as the checked bag fee. So if you plan on checking a bag, it might be worth the upgrade. Lastly, if you suspect you may be liable for additional fees, you can save money by paying them online at booking.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on Air France's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
158cm (62 linear inches) |
Oversize Fee |
$300 between North America and Europe |
Weight Limit |
23kg (50lbs) |
Overweight Fee |
$100 between North America and Europe |
General Baggage Fees |
|
|
1st Checked Bag |
Included with Economy fare class and up* |
|
2nd Checked Bag |
$75** |
|
Carry-on |
Included |
|
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
$150 between North America and Europe IMPORTANT NOTE*** |
|
* Economy Light fares do not include a checked bag. Fees start at $80 and depend on the route.
** For Economy Class fares. For Economy Light, this fee will be higher.
*** Bicycles must be pre-approved at least 48 hours prior to departure.
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on Air France actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. We have found that airline employees are often woefully misinformed about their own company's policies, so it can be helpful to bring a printed reference of any relevant policies, especially those regarding baggage allowances and fees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
Your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
]]>
Our team of highly-trained bicycle travel scientists gives JetBlue a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of B. Standard baggage allowance and checked bag fees are in line with other major airlines. A carry-on bag is included, which is always helpful. There is no fee for bikes that measure under 62" in combined length, height, and width.
JetBlue recently (for tickets purchased after 8/27/2018) increased their bike fee from $50 to $100. This is in addition to any applicable checked bag fee. Oversize and overweight fees increased from $100 to $150. Even if a bike fee has been paid, bikes in boxes or cases over 80" will not be accepted, so a lot of standard soft and hard travel cases don't qualify to be transported on JetBlue. If you find this totally lame, you're not alone. These fees are still slightly lower than some other carriers, so we only downgraded JetBlue to a B rating.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on jetBlue's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
62 Linear Inches (157cm) |
Oversize Fee |
$150 |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$150 |
General Baggage Fees |
Domestic |
|
1st Checked Bag |
$30 |
|
2nd Checked Bag |
$40 |
|
Carry-on |
Included |
|
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
$100 |
|
Bike Bag Dimensions |
80 Linear Inches (203cm) |
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on jetBlue actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
Your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
]]>Our team of highly specialized bicycle travel scientists gives Delta a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of A. Hot on the heels of American Airlines, Delta recently announced they will no longer be charging a bike fee. Standard baggage allowance and checked bag fees are in line with other major airlines. A carry-on bag is included, which is always helpful.
Aside from the newly-relaxed baggage fees, Delta is our preferred airline because of their generally nice and comfortable airplanes, good service, and high on-time percentage.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on Delta's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
62 Linear Inches (157cm) |
Oversize Fee |
$200 |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$100 |
General Baggage Fees |
Domestic |
Translatlantic |
Transpacific |
1st Checked Bag |
$30 |
$0 |
$0 |
2nd Checked Bag |
$40 |
$100 |
$0 |
Carry-on |
Included |
Included |
Included |
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
$0 |
|
|
Bike Bag Specifications |
|
Dimensions |
115 Linear Inches (292cm) |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
If the bicycle is packaged in a soft sided travel bag or anything other than a hard shell case, a limited release form will need to be signed.
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on Delta actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help tip the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
As always, your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
]]>Our team of highly specialized bicycle travel scientists give Spirit a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of C+. Standard baggage allowance and checked bag fees are those of a budget airline. A carry-on bag is not included. Although there's usually space in a bike case for extra gear, a carry-on will most likely also be necessary. Be sure to anticipate how many bags you will need and pay for these bags at the time of booking because the fees increase the closer you get to departure. The bicycle transport fee of $75 is not crazy, but keeping it under 40 pounds might be an issue for some bike cases, and will limit how much extra gear you can pack in your case.
If you're bringing a bike and another bag with you, Spirit Airlines baggage fees will likely cut away at - if not offset entirely - any savings you might have found by choosing a budget airline. For this and other reasons, we recommend leaving Spirit as an 'Airline of Last Resort' for bike trips.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on Spirit's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
62 Linear Inches (157cm) |
Oversize Fee |
$100-150 |
Weight Limit |
40lbs (18kg) / 51lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$59 / 99 |
General Baggage Fees |
Domestic |
1st Checked Bag |
$25-65* |
2nd Checked Bag |
$44-60* |
Carry-on |
$35-65* |
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
$75 |
*Baggage fees vary depending origin and destination, and whether they are paid for at time of booking, before or during check-in, or at the departure gate.
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on Spirit actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
As always, your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
]]>Our team of highly specialized bicycle travel scientists gives Southwest Airlines a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of A-. Southwest is the only airline to give two free checked bags, as well as a carry-on. Bikes are counted toward the standard baggage allowance if they meet the standard size and weight requirements. If the bike does come in over the size limit, the oversize fee of $75 is less than half of what most major airlines charge.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on Southwest's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
62 Linear Inches (158cm) |
Oversize Fee |
$75 |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$75 |
General Baggage Fees |
|
|
|
1st Checked Bag |
$0 |
|
|
2nd Checked Bag |
$0 |
|
|
Carry-on |
Included |
|
|
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
$0/$75* |
|
|
*counted toward standard baggage allowance if under 62 linear inches / 50lbs.
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on Southwest actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
Your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
]]>
Our team of highly specialized bicycle travel scientists give WestJet a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of A+. Standard baggage allowance and checked bag fees are in line with other major airlines. A carry-on bag is included, which is always nice. Most importantly, THERE IS NO ADDITIONAL BIKE FEE. The size and weight limits become much greater, which means any old bike case will fly free.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on WestJet's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
62 Linear Inches (157cm) |
Oversize Fee |
CAD $110-118 |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
CAD $110-118 |
General Baggage Fees |
|
|
|
1st Checked Bag |
CAD $30-47.20* |
|
|
2nd Checked Bag |
CAD $50-71* |
|
|
Carry-on |
Included |
|
|
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
No Additional Fee1 |
|
|
*Economy Class - Flex and Plus service include 1 and 2 free checked bags, respectively.
1Size and weight limits become 115" (292cm) / 100lbs (45kg)
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on WestJet actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
From getting your bike to the airport to packing the rental car at your destination, the most convenient way to travel with a bike is with the smallest and lightest bicycle travel case on the market. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
]]>
Our team of highly specialized bicycle travel scientists give Hawaiian Airlines a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of B. Standard baggage allowance and checked bag fees are in line with other major airlines. A carry-on bag is included, which is always nice. The bicycle transport fee of $100 when flying to or from North America is not not the highest we've seen, but it's not cheap. The bike fee is only $35 when flying between the Hawaiian Islands. Hawaiian Airlines states that if you can fit your bike into a "normal suitcase", it will fly as part of your standard allowance.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on Hawaiian's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
62 Linear Inches (157cm) |
Oversize Fee |
$35/100* |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) / 71lbs (32kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$150/250* |
General Baggage Fees |
Inter-Island |
North America |
International |
1st Checked Bag |
$25 |
$25 |
$0 |
2nd Checked Bag |
$35 |
$35 |
$0 |
Carry-on |
Included |
Included |
Included |
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
$35 |
$100 |
$150 |
*Neighboring Islands / North America
Please complete the Hawaiian Airlines Bicycle Liability Release Form before you get to the airport and present it when you check in.
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on Hawaiian actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
As always, your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
]]>
Our team of highly specialized bicycle travel scientists gives Frontier a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of B-. Standard baggage allowance and checked bag fees are definitely those of a budget airline. A carry-on bag is not included. Although there's usually space in a bike case for extra gear, a carry-on will most likely also be necessary. Be sure to anticipate how many bags you will need and pay for these bags at the time of booking because the fees increase the closer you get to departure. The bicycle transport fee of $75 is not crazy, but applies whether the bike is over the 62 linear inch limit or not.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on Frontier's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
62 Linear Inches (157cm) |
Oversize Fee |
$75 |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$75 |
General Baggage Fees |
Domestic |
1st Checked Bag |
$25-60* |
2nd Checked Bag |
$45-50* |
Carry-on |
$30-60* |
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
$75 |
*Baggage fees vary greatly depending on whether they are paid for at time of booking, before or during check-in, or at the departure gate.
Bike Bag Specifications |
|
Dimensions |
109 Linear Inches (276cm) |
Weight Limit |
99lbs (44kg) |
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on Frontier actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
As always, your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
]]>
Our team of highly specialized bicycle travel scientists give Air Canada a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of A-. Standard baggage allowance and checked bag fees are in line with other major airlines. A carry-on bag is included, which is always nice. The bicycle handling fee of $50-59 is actually pretty reasonable, especially since it exempts you from the standard size and weight requirements.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on Air Canada's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
62 Linear Inches (157cm) |
Oversize Fee |
$100 |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$100 |
General Baggage Fees |
|
|
|
1st Checked Bag |
$25* |
||
2nd Checked Bag |
$35* |
|
|
Carry-on |
Included |
|
|
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
$50-591 |
|
|
*Each way, for Economy Class tickets. Included for Premium Economy service and above.
1Each way, size/weight limits become 115in (292cm) / 70lbs (32kg)
Bike Bag Specifications |
|
Dimensions |
115 Linear Inches (1292cm) |
Weight Limit |
70lbs (32kg) |
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on Air Canada actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
As always, your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
]]>
Our team of highly specialized bicycle travel scientists gives United Airlines a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of B. Standard baggage allowance and checked bag fees are in line with the other three major airlines. A carry-on bag is only included with Main Cabin or higher service classes, which is annoying. I wonder how long it will be before there is a surcharge for breathing the air. Bikes are counted toward the standard baggage allowance if they meet the size and weight requirements. However, the oversize and overweight fees of $200 and $100, respectively, are quite exorbitant. The bike fee of $150/$200 is not much better.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on United's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
62 Linear Inches (158cm) |
Oversize Fee |
$200-400** |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$100** |
General Baggage Fees |
Domestic |
Translatlantic |
Transpacific |
1st Checked Bag |
$25 |
Varies |
Varies |
2nd Checked Bag |
$35 |
Varies |
Varies |
Carry-on |
Not Included in United Economy |
|
|
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
$150 (US and Territories)* |
$200 (International)* |
|
*counted toward standard baggage allowance if under 62 linear inches / 50lbs.
**depends on location
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on United actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
Your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
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Our team of highly specialized bicycle travel scientists gives Alaska Airlines a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of A+. Checked bag fees are better than some other low-cost airlines. A carry-on bag is included, which is helpful. The size and weight requirements applicable to standard luggage are waived for bicycles, and there is no additional bike fee. Alaska airlines doesn't have a reputation for luxury service, but their policy toward bicycles is so reasonable - I might be so bold as to say generous - that they have earned one of the top marks in the class.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on Alaska's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
62 Linear Inches (158cm) |
Oversize Fee |
$100 |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$100 |
General Baggage Fees |
Domestic |
|
|
1st Checked Bag |
$30 |
|
|
2nd Checked Bag |
$40 |
|
|
Carry-on |
Included |
|
|
Bicycle Baggage Fee* |
$0* |
|
|
*Size and weight requirements are waived for bicycles.
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on Alaska Airlines actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
As always, your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
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Our team of highly specialized bicycle travel scientists gives American Airlines a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of A. Standard baggage allowance and checked bag fees are in line with the other three major airlines. A carry-on bag is included, which is always helpful. Bikes are counted toward the standard baggage allowance if they meet the weight requirements (50 lbs), as American just removed the oversize restrictions on sports equipment. However, the overweight fee of $100, are quite exorbitant.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on American's website. (Updated 11/1/22)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
162 Linear Inches (320cm) |
Oversize Fee |
$0 |
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$150 |
General Baggage Fees |
Domestic |
Translatlantic |
Transpacific |
1st Checked Bag |
$30 |
$0 |
$0 |
2nd Checked Bag |
$40 |
$100 |
$0 |
Carry-on |
Included |
Included |
Included |
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
$0* |
|
|
*counted toward standard baggage allowance if under 50lbs. Checked bag fee still applies.
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on American Airlines actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
Your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
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Our team of highly-trained bicycle travel scientists gives RyanAir a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of B+. As a European budget carrier, RyanAir's policies and fees are quite different from most US carriers, so they warrant a bit of explanation. First of all, a carry-on bag is only included if you pay for "Priority & 2 Cabin Bags", which costs €6/£6 at booking. Non-priority customers are allowed a single small bag, what we know in the States as a "Personal Item", which must fit under the seat in front of you. However, if you show up with two bags and have not paid for priority, they will check it free of charge as long as it meets the size and weight requirements of hand luggage.
Checked bags are not included, but are priced comparably to US carriers if they are paid for at booking. Try to decide at booking, or else the fee jumps. The bike fee at booking is €60/£60, which is quite reasonable compared to most major US carriers. Interestingly, there seem to be no oversize fees for checked baggage - only a strict limit of 81 x 119 x 119cm, or 125 linear inches. There are, however, separate fees for items considered "large sports equipment", and there is even a fee for checking golf clubs. It is unclear what counts as "large sports equipment", or whether this information must be volunteered by the passenger.
In conclusion - despite the rather convoluted baggage policies and a schedule of fees that lacks clear definitions, the bike fee for RyanAir is pretty reasonable when compared to major US carriers, and even most US budget carriers. The flights are also pretty cheap, which no doubt is part of the reason RyanAir is one of Europe's most popular airlines. We recommend it.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on RyanAir's website. (Updated 9/13/18)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
81 x 119 x 119cm (125 linear inches) |
Oversize Fee |
N/A |
Weight Limit |
20kg (44lbs) |
Overweight Fee |
€11/£11 per kilogram (up to 32kg) |
General Baggage Fees |
|
|
1st Checked Bag |
€25/£25 (online) €40/£40 (at counter) |
|
2nd Checked Bag |
same |
|
Carry-on |
Included for Priority Boarding €6/£6* at booking |
|
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
€60/£60 (online) €75/£75 (at counter) |
|
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on RyanAir actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. We have found that airline employees are often woefully misinformed about their own company's policies, so it can be helpful to bring a printed reference of any relevant policies, especially those regarding baggage allowances and fees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
Your best chance to avoid paying fees is to pack your bike in the smallest possible bike case, especially one with no obvious markings that indicate that it is a bike. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
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Our team of highly specialized bicycle travel scientists give British Airways a Bicycle Flight Grade (BFG) of A+. Standard allowance and checked bag fees are in line with other major airlines. A carry-on bag and a personal item are included for all fare classes.
Two factors set British Airways apart from the rest. Most importantly, the standard allowable dimensions are 35.5x29.5x16". A total of 81 linear inches, this is significantly better than the standard North American airline limit of 62 linear inches.
Secondly, and also important, is that there is no additional bike fee. We were somewhat confused by BA's requirements for bicycle luggage, as they list the maximum dimensions at 75 linear inches. This is six inches less than what they quote for standard baggage, so we're still waiting to hear whether this is just an oversight on their part. But don't fret, even an XL 29er full-suspension mountain bike in an Airport Ninja is well within this requirement.
Please note that this information is subject to change and may not reflect the most recent information available on British Airways' website. (Updated 3/29/18)
Specifications |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
35.5x29.5x16" |
Oversize Fee |
|
Weight Limit |
50lbs (23kg) |
Overweight Fee |
$100 |
General Baggage Fees |
|
|
|
1st Checked Bag |
$30 / Included* |
|
|
2nd Checked Bag |
$90 / $55* |
|
|
Carry-on |
Included |
|
|
Bicycle Baggage Fee |
No Additional Fee |
|
|
* 'Basic' fares include hand baggage only. All higher fare classes include at least one checked bag. Prices quoted here are for Basic Economy / Economy, respectively. Fees may vary depending on origin and destination.
A few things to keep in mind when flying with a bike on British Airways actually apply to all airlines. It’s important to come to the airport prepared with a knowledge of airline policies and procedures. Screenshots or printouts of relevant information can come in handy to help clarify these policies for less well-versed airline employees. It’s also prudent to take baggage policies into account when planning a trip and buying tickets. Why take the budget airline if they are sticklers at the baggage counter and will likely charge you double or triple to fly with your bike?
Lastly, a true Airport Ninja knows that airline employees don’t always play by the book, and this can both help us and hurt us as customers. Many gate agents will never look twice as your bags, while others are vigilantes who play fast and loose with the tape measure. Checking in early, approaching a well-rested-looking ticketing agent and being very polite, or using curbside check-in and offering a small tip are all strategies that can all help turn the odds in your favor. For more advice on how to be an Airport Ninja, see our blog Ninja Tutelage Lesson 1 - What's in the Bag?
From getting to the airport to packing the rental car at your destination, the most convenient way to travel with a bike is with the smallest and lightest bicycle travel case on the market. This is where the Orucase Airport Ninja comes to the rescue. Designed and tested by professional cyclists to minimize or even eliminate excess baggage fees. Become an Airport Ninja Today.
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The Airport Ninja has many tricks up their sleeves. One of which is knowing each airline's policy when it comes to flying with a bike. Saving $20 on airline X's ticket isn't worth it when Airline X charges double, triple or quadruple what Airline Y does. Knowing this beforehand can help aid in choosing the least expensive flight with your bike.
At the end of the day these are each airline's policies but experience has shown that they aren't hard and fast rules. Checking in early, or at a smaller airport, choosing the friendliest looking airport check-in person, being friendly to said airline employee, they all add up.
Below is a list of all the domestic airlines ordered from least expensive to most with regards to their bicycle fees. Scroll to the bottom to see links to their respective pages.
Be an Airport Ninja.
Where we found our info:
Airline Name |
Airline Page |
Alaska Airlines |
|
Allegiant Airlines |
https://www.allegiantair.com/popup/optional-services-fees#baggage |
American Airlines |
https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/baggage/specialty-and-sports.jsp#bikes |
Delta Airlines |
http://www.delta.com/content/www/en_US/traveling-with-us/baggage/before-your-trip/special-items.html |
Frontier Airlines |
https://az832049.vo.msecnd.net/media/2829/specialitems_04_16.pdf |
Hawaiian Airlines |
|
Jetblue |
|
Southwest Airlines |
https://www.southwest.com/html/customer-service/baggage/special-luggage-pol.html |
Spirit Airlines |
https://customersupport.spirit.com/hc/en-us/articles/202096596-Can-I-bring-my-bicycle-on-my-trip- |
United Airlines |
https://www.united.com/web/en-US/content/travel/baggage/sports.aspx |
Virgin America |
http://virginamerica.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/72/ |
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