Re: [RUSA] Digest for randonneurs-usa@googlegroups.com - 7 updates in 1 topic

[Miki Vuckovich]

Here’s a good article on the cheapest airlines to fly with bikes:  https://www.airline-baggage-fees.com/lists/top-bike-friendly-us-based-airlines/

-Miki

On Oct 10, 2022, at 7:50 PM, randonn...@googlegroups.com wrote:



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• Southwest Airlines bicycle baggage - 7 Updates

Southwest Airlines bicycle baggage

Bob Counts <robert...@gmail.com>: Oct 10 07:24AM -0700 I recommend the Orucase Ninja bike case. Their design makes it less obvious it is a bike. There are other reasons I really like it, it is very easy to load my bike in and it is very light, yet also very secure. After totally loading it, plus tools, helmet, shoes and extras) the total weight was 33 lbs. Weight to spare compared to my "Trico Iron Case" which was 49 lbs without any tools or extras.   This past summer I flew to San Diego and back using Southwest. Southwest did not ask or charge me on the way there. Going back they charged $75 but I suspect it is because Orucase is located in SD and they have become accustomed to seeing their cases in the airport there (totally my theory).   I am not up on the latest but I've heard Delta and perhaps other airlines have removed fees for bicycles, which I find hard to believe. Excellent news if so.   Bob #2619

Eric Keller <kell...@gmail.com>: Oct 10 10:36AM -0400 Those airlines charge as if it's a second piece of luggage, which isn't cheap, but it's not the $200 they used to charge. Eric Keller Boalsburg Pennsylvania

Yasmin Boakye <yasmin...@gmail.com>: Oct 10 10:40AM -0400 Just chiming in that I also used the Orucase Ninja Case on Southwest and was charged $75 because it was oversized -- the gate agent actually pulled out the measuring tape...and the bike never made it to my final destination. Really disappointing experience especially given luggage is free on Southwest! I've heard from other cyclists that Delta, American, and United are all better options.

Jeff <jeff...@gmail.com>: Oct 10 11:10AM -0400 alaska, delta and some others simply charge a checked bag fee... some airlines will waive the handling fee for certain status levels.   Sent from a small device

Bob Counts <robert...@gmail.com>: Oct 10 09:50AM -0700 I think it is a bit of a crap shoot regarding if Southwest charges. I will say that in four trips since 2019 (legs) using SW I was charged once. One-out-of-four ain't bad! I think it is important not to volunteer "this is a bicycle". In fact, when I was at the counter where I was charged, I was asked "what is in this bag" to which I said "just my stuff". Well, my daughter was there and said "It's a bicycle!". Ugggh.   In PBP 2019 I was charged but ONLY because for Air France I had to fill out a form ahead of time saying I was bringing a bike. When I showed at the counter they didn't think it was a bicycle until they looked at my reservation, both outbound and return.   That being said I like the orucase regardless of if there is a fee.   Howard - I'm not sure if this answers your original question but I will mention that SW Airlines website says it here - https://www.southwest.com/help/baggage/special-baggage-sports-equipment   I think they have updated their site because I called them before, they will allow "oversized" but will charge the $75. If it is under 62 inches they shouldn't charge a fee, but if you read what they say - "Additional charges may apply", which is totally up to the person checking you in basically. I think the only bike case that will pass the exact requirement of less-than 62" is the S&S coupler (or similar) case.   Bob

Robert Sexton <rob...@kudra.com>: Oct 10 10:12AM -0700 I've got a Ritchey breakaway that I've flown with many, many times. It's not within the size limit, but close enough that almost nobody ever checks.   - Robert       -- Robert Sexton

RBA of DBC <r...@davisbikeclub.org>: Oct 10 11:28AM -0700 Me too. And when I am asked, I say that it’s bicycle parts, cuz in that state, it’s not even close to a full bicycle! ;-)   Deb   ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ RBA of DBC r...@davisbikeclub.org

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