British Airways bans surfboards.
Thinking of flying off for a surfing or SUP break somewhere ? Are you flying with “Britains Favourite Airline” ? If you are flying with them after the 7th November 2007 you had best leave the boards at home.
The following is a direct quote from the British Airways website :
“Due to the large size and handling complexities, some sporting equipment cannot be accommodated through the airport baggage system or within the aircraft hold. Therefore we no longer accept the following equipment at check-in as part of your sporting equipment allowance.
hang gliders
windsurfing boards and sails
surfboards
kayaks or canoes
pole vaults
javelinsPlease contact your local freight company to arrange carriage for any items that exceed the permitted weight and size.”
So what does this mean ? Clearly its bad news for anyone who has booked up a surfing trip on a British Airways flight (and you can book up to a year in advance), its also bad news for people who are currently out surfing somewhere, having flown out with surfboards, and is returning after the 7th November 2007. It looks like these folks could be finding thier beloved surfboards stranded.
Longer term it all depends on how the other airlines respond. Very often the trend is to follow suit, lets hope not !
I’ve asked BA this question and as long as you booked your flight before the announcment they will honour the baggage rules at the time that you booked your ticket.
Comment by Dave — October 24, 2007 @ 5:37 pm
The Bristish Surfing Association has organised a facebook group : http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=5286497429
and has is also putting together an online petition : http://www.gopetition.com/online/14891.html
If the windsurfing, kayaking/canoeing and surfing communities could come together on this one we would have more influence. Hats off to the BSA though, lets hope BA changes thier mind.
Comment by SUP Matt — October 25, 2007 @ 7:36 am