Can you take a bicycle on a plane?

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moblet

Yes. Requirements and charges vary by airline. QANTAS insists on it being boxed (they can give you a cardboard box at the airport, or get one from any bike shop), which means at least front wheel/rack, handlebars, pedals off. Always lock or jam something into the exposed front forks to brace them together (the only time I forgot they got bent). You might want to let a smidgin of air out of the tyres but I've forgotten on occasion and gotten away with it.

I have usually thrown other (soft) luggage into the box too, although on one of my last trips (with two transfers) only half the box arrived at the other end. In future I'll tape the luggage to the bike.

If I don't have a box I still prepare the bike the same way, and tape the package into immobility. Call me paranoid, but as it only takes a few seconds, I also undo the rear derailleur from the frame (no need to disconnect the cable).

Most airlines supposedly have a nominal charge but I've rarely been asked for it. Only been slugged in China (charged by the kilo) and once by American Airlines.

John B

sure you can ride around on the wings

ausblue

yes but they have to have plenty of warning

Jess Wundring

If its a folding bicycle, no problem, even if you're taking a small bush plane. It's best if you stick it in a dufflebag though, for easy carrying by the baggage handlers.

On commercial airlines, they normally charge you a bit extra ($50 or so) for shipping "normal" bikes, and would require you to turn and tape the handlebars parallel with the frame (for a smaller form factor) or else box it. If they require a box, the airline is likely to have one somewhere around in back for purchase (at larger airports). Bike boxes can be pretty expensive though (like another $50).

idontlike_idiots

in baggage not as carry on hand luggage(unless it is very small)

Ken E

You have to put it in the luggage to stop you from riding it between the seats. Of course you can, though the airline will want it boxed.

katnkarebear

Each airline has different guideline of what you can and cant take on an airplane. I would be pretty suprised to learn that you can't take one on a airplane. Most airlines have size restrictions on things & so you might have to take the bike apart & pack it in a box.

trykindness

yep but you have to take it apart

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