Special items and sports equipment
Special items
Rules, exceptions and packing instructions apply to special items. The maximum weight and size for all items is 100 lbs / 45 kgs (some exceptions apply) and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height). If your equipment exceeds allowances, contact a freight forwarder. All bag fees are non-refundable and apply per person, each way. Overweight and/or oversize charges may apply.
Preferred entertainment and media companies and eligible travelers are offered a special rate and generous bag allowance for cameras, film, lighting, sound equipment, musical instruments and other bags.
Eligible travelers will pay $50 per piece, per one-way domestic trip, or $90/£60/€70, per one-way international trip. Fees for overweight and oversize bags will be waived.*
Each eligible organization/company may travel with up to 25 pieces per flight, subject to seasonal and permanent bag embargoes. The maximum size and weight allowances are subject to the policies in place for the destination. Equipment is subject to seasonal and permanent bag embargoes.
Only eligible travelers receive this media bag program. For details on preferred eligibility and access to this program, please contact your travel agency or American Airlines Entertainment Sales Representative.
*Bags may not exceed 100 lbs / 45 kg or 126 in / 320cm in total dimensions (max length of 75 in / 190 cm). Overweight fees will apply to musical instruments over 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 80 in / 203 cm.
When you travel with cremated remains, they’ll be treated as your carry-on bag. No special documentation is needed if you’re traveling domestically, but please contact a local consulate or burial advisor if you’re traveling internationally since the rules vary.
Certain crematory containers, such as urns, cannot be screened at the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) security checkpoint.
- Before you travel, check with a funeral home to make sure your container will be able to pass through TSA checkpoints.
- When traveling, airport agents can also check with TSA to determine if your container can pass through security or if it will need to be checked.
Our TLC Specialists can also help handle the transportation of non-cremated remains and will work directly with funeral homes and mortuaries to make necessary arrangements.
TLC Specialists Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines
If you’re traveling with a stroller, you’ll need to check it at the ticket counter if it is:
- Large
- Non-collapsible
- Over 20lbs
You can travel domestically with firearms and ammunition, subject to our rules.
If you are active U.S. military personnel traveling on orders, present your military ID and orders at the check-in counter and you can check*:
- Up to 5 complimentary bags
- Bags up to 100lbs and 126 inches (width + length + height)
When traveling on personal business or pleasure you can check:
- Up to 3 complimentary bags
- Bags up to 50 lbs and 62 inches (width + length + height)
If you are a military dependent traveling on orders, you will have the same privileges as U.S. military personnel when you present:
- Your Military Dependent ID
- A copy of active orders
*Active U.S. military personnel is any member of the U.S. armed forces (Navy, Army, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard) in an active status, (Cadets are included). Excludes customers with a Civilian Military ID, US Public Health Service, Military Reserves and National Guard.
You can travel with wheelchairs, braces and other mobility devices as checked bags in addition to your normal checked bag allowance.
Carry-on instruments
You can travel with small musical instruments as your carry-on item on a first come, first serve basis as long as it:
- Fits in the overhead bin; or
- Fits under the seat in front of you
If your instrument doesn’t fit in the carry-on bag space, you can choose to buy an additional seat which:
- Costs the applicable adult fare plus any applicable taxes or carrier-imposed fees
- Is a bulkhead (divider) window seat (not in an Emergency Exit row)
- Is directly next to yours
If you choose to buy an additional seat for your instrument, please note that seat bags must not weigh more than 165 lbs / 75 kg and must meet seat size restrictions based on airplane type.
Checked instruments
Your musical instrument can also be checked. The maximum size for checked instruments is 150 in / 381 cm, and the maximum weight is 165 lbs / 75 kg. Anything larger or heavier would need to be shipped via Cargo.
Cost
Standard checked bag fees for your destination apply up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fees apply over 50 lbs / 23 kgs.
The minimum size of the aircraft cargo hold doors on aircraft is 25in high x 40in wide/63cm high x 101cm wide, the ERJ 170 is a bit smaller at 25in x 38in. If your musical instrument is larger, please contact reservations for the exact size of cargo hold doors on the aircraft in your journey.
Please note that due their fragile nature, we will only be liable for damages to musical instruments if:
- Your instrument is in a hard-sided case
- The outside of the case is visibly damaged
Travel tips
- To make sure you have room to store your instrument, board as soon as your group is called, or buy Priority boarding.
- The size of overhead bin space can vary by fleet type and also between aircraft in a fleet. For further information on the aircraft in your itinerary, please contact Reservations.
- If your musical instrument needs to be checked, make sure it’s in a hard-sided case
You can travel with a maximum of 2 small portable speakers or 1 sound bar for personal use; total will be calculated between carry-on and checked bags.
Sports equipment
When traveling with any sports equipment, the maximum linear size (length + width + height) is 126 in / 320 cm, and the maximum weight is 70 lbs / 32 kgs, subject to the airplane size and available cargo space.
Any sports item not specifically mentioned and not prohibited will be charged standard checked bag fees up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 126 in / 320 cm (oversize fees don't apply).
If the equipment bag contains anything other than approved items, then it will be charged as a standard checked bag, and additional oversize and overweight charges may apply.
You may be asked to open your bag at the airport.
Allowance and requirements
You can travel with antlers if:
- They are as free of residue as possible
- The skull must be wrapped and tips must be protected
- You make all arrangements and assume full responsibility for compliance with any applicable laws, customs, and/or other governmental regulations, requirements, or restrictions of the county, state, or territory to/from which the antlers are being transported
Cost
$150 (free bag allowances don't apply)
Allowance and requirements
You can travel with:
- 1 bow and quiver
- Arrows
- A maintenance kit
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51 lbs / 23 kgs to 70 lbs / 32 kgs.
Allowance and requirements
Baseball bats aren't allowed as carry-ons and must be checked in a suitable bag or case.
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51 lbs / 23 kgs to 70 lbs / 32 kgs.
Allowance and requirements
You can travel with 1 non-motorized touring, mountain, tandem, or racing bicycle if the:
- Bicycle is in a hard-sided case, bicycle bag or box built for bicycle transport
- Handlebars are fixed sideways
- Pedals are removed; or
- Pedals and handlebars are wrapped in plastic foam or a similar material
Please note that if your bicycle is not in a hard-sided case, it will be treated as a fragile item.
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height) or $150 fee applies from 51 lbs / 23 kgs to 70 lbs / 32 kgs.
For travel to, through or from Brazil, for tickets issued on or before May 20, 2019, the fee is $85 from 51 lbs / 23 kgs to 70 lbs / 32 kgs. For tickets issued on or after May 21, 2019 there is no exception for Brazil.
Allowance and requirements
You can travel with a bowling case with up to a maximum of 3 bowling balls and shoes, which is also allowed as carry-on if the bag will fit under the seat. Bowling balls aren't allowed in overhead bins.
Please note that you cannot check or carry-on bowling ball cleaners with:
- High amounts of acetone
- Alcohol over 70% volume
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51 lbs / 23 kgs to 70 lbs / 32 kgs.
Allowance and requirements
Each piece of camping equipment, such as a tent, sleeping bag, or backpack will each count as a separate checked bag.
Prohibited items*:
- Camping stoves
- Fuels
- Sterno
- Matches
- Lighters and flares
*Refer to Restricted items for a complete list
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51 lbs / 23 kgs to 70 lbs / 32 kgs.
Allowance and requirements
1 curling equipment bag or case can include:
- Curling stone
- Curling broom
- Stabilizers
- Delivery sticks
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51 lbs / 23 kgs to 70 lbs / 32 kgs.
Allowance and requirements
1 fencing equipment bag or case can include:
- Fencing foils
- Jacket
- Gloves
- Mask
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51 lbs / 23 kgs to 70 lbs / 32 kgs.
Allowance and requirements
1 rod case (containing up to 2 rods) and 1 equipment bag or tackle box will count as 1 checked item. You can travel with:
- 2 rods and 1 reel in a case
- Fishing tackle
- A landing net
- Fishing boots
- 1 pair of waders (properly encased)
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51 lbs / 23 kgs to 70 lbs / 32 kgs. If the equipment bag exceeds 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 62 in / 158 cm, it will be charged as a separate checked bag and standard overweight and oversize fees will apply.
Allowance and requirements
You can travel with 1 golf bag containing:
- Golf clubs
- Golf balls
- Golf tees
- 1 pair of golf shoes
You can’t travel with swingless golf club load strips.
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50 lbs / 23 kgs and 126 in / 320 cm (length + width + height) or $150 fee applies from 51 lbs / 23 kgs - 70 lbs / 32 kgs.
For travel to, through or from Brazil, for tickets issued on or before May 20, 2019, once you have used your free bag allowance your golf bag will cost $42.50. For tickets issued on or after May 21, 2019, there is no exception for Brazil.
Allowance and requirements
1 hang glider packed in a suitable case made for transport
Cost
$150 (free bag allowances don't apply)
Allowance and requirements
1 bag or case containing hockey, cricket, or lacrosse sticks and 1 equipment bag will count as 1 checked item.
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50lbs/23kgs and 126in/320cm (length + width + height) or $150 fee applies from 51lbs/23kgs - 70lbs/32kgs. If the equipment bag exceeds 50lbs/23kgs and 62in/158cm, it will be charged as a separate checked bag and standard overweight and oversize fees will apply.
Allowance and requirements
1 javelin or pole packed in a suitable bag or case made for transport
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50lbs/23kgs and 126in/320cm (length + width + height) or $150 fee applies from 51lbs/23kgs - 70lbs/32kgs.
Allowance and requirements
1 pair of oars or paddles
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50lbs/23kgs and 126in/320cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51lbs/23kgs to 70lbs/32kgs.
Allowance and requirements
1 parachute
Allowed as a carry-on provided the parachute and accessories meet carry-on size limitations and don't contain compressed gas cylinders or other such items considered as dangerous goods.
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50lbs/23kgs and 126in/320cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51lbs/23kgs to 70lbs/32kgs.
Allowance and requirements
1 scuba tank and 1 equipment bag will count as 1 checked item. You can travel with:
- 1 scuba tank
- 1 scuba regulator
- A tank harness
- A tank pressure gauge
- 1 pair of fins
- 1 snorkel and mask
- 1 BC vest
If you are traveling with a regulator valve:
- It needs to be completely disconnected from the cylinder and
- The cylinder needs an opening to allow a visual inspection inside
Cost
$150 (free bag allowances don't apply)
Allowance and requirements
You can travel with a:
- Scuba regulator
- Tank harness
- Tank pressure gauge
- 1 pair of fins
- 1 snorkel and mask
- 1 BC vest
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50lbs/23kgs and 126in/320cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51lbs/23kgs to 70lbs/32kgs.
Allowance and requirements
1 case will count as 1 checked item containing:
- Unloaded rifles or shotguns
- Unloaded pistols or revolvers
- Up to 11 lbs. or 5 kgs of ammunition (loose ammunition, magazines or clips won't be accepted)
- A shooting mat
- Noise suppressors and tools
The case must be hard-sided and locked where the firearm is completely inaccessible.
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50lbs/23kgs and 126in/320cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51lbs/23kgs to 70lbs/32kgs.For travel to, through, or from London, UK there is an additional $80 service fee.
Allowance and requirements
1 skateboard
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50lbs/23kgs and 126in/320cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51lbs/23kgs to 70lbs/32kgs.
Allowance and requirements
1 pair of skis or 1 snowboard and 1 equipment bag will count as 1 checked item. You can travel with:
- 1 pair of skis with poles or a snowboard
- 1 pair of ski or snowboard boots / bindings
- 1 helmet or life preserver
You cannot travel with lighters or torches for applying ski wax
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50lbs/23kgs and 126in/320cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51lbs/23kgs to 70lbs/32kgs. If the equipment bag exceeds 50lbs/23kgs and 62in/158cm, it will be charged as a separate checked bag and standard overweight and oversize fees will apply.
For travel to, through or from Brazil, for tickets issued on or before May 20, 2019, once you’ve used your free bag allowance, ski equipment will cost $28.05. For tickets issued on or after May 21, 2019, there is no exception for Brazil.
Allowance and requirements
Water sports boards include:
- Surfboards
- Wakeboards
- Wave skis
- Boogie boards
- Skim boards
- Paddle boards
- Speed boards
- Kiteboard / kitesurf
1 bag or case can contain multiple boards and will count as 1 checked item. Keels, kedges, and/or fins must be removed or properly protected to prevent damage to other bags.
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50lbs/23kgs and 126in/320cm (length + width + height) or a $150 fee applies from 51lbs/23kgs to 70lbs/32kgs.
For travel to, through or from Brazil, for tickets issued on or before May 20, 2019, the fee will be:
- $42.50 (1st board bag/case)
- $85 (2+ board bags/cases)
For tickets issued on or after May 21, 2019, there is no exception for Brazil.
Allowance and requirements
You can travel with 1 bag containing:
Multiple rackets and balls
Cost
Standard checked bag fees of your destination apply up to 50lbs/23kgs and 126in/320cm (length + width + height) and standard overweight fee applies from 51lbs/23kgs to 70lbs/32kgs.
Allowance and requirements
Any 2 of the following windsurf equipment will count as 1 checked item:
- 1 board
- 1 mast
- A boom and sail
Cost
$150 for every 2 pieces (free bag allowances don't apply)
Liability
We will only be liable for any damage to sports equipment if:
- They are in hard-sided case
- The outside of the case is visibly damaged
Items not properly packed in a hard-sided case will be treated as fragile items.
We are not liable if and to the extent that the damage resulted from the inherent defect or quality of the bag.