Airplane-legal carry-on case for Epic - very satisfied with this unit.

[Tom Hamilton]

The other thing to keep in mind is that some airlines actually have special rules/policies for media luggage. They may waive, to a certain extent, the extra luggage, extra weight, and/or over-size fees. (Obviously, it would be better not to check anything in ... but sometimes that just doesn't work.) Not all airlines have these policies, but it doesn't hurt to check in advance and to print-out the actual policy from the airline's web-site and have it ready when you check-in. Typically, the airlines that do give you a break on media luggage will require some sort of ID that shows you are associated with a TV or film production company. (For those of us who have our own independent production companies, it is relatively easy to make-up your own official looking ID.)

Another thing to watch out for, just because the agent accepted your stuff on this end, doesn't mean you won't have a problem coming back. Airlines that operate internationally each have local managers in different countires, that may or mat not know, or care, about these kinds of things. Always best to get written verification before departure.

 

[Bill Sepaniak]

Some additional reading material (FWIW):

http://philipbloom.net/2012/02/13/flying-with-gear/

http://philipbloom.net/2011/01/30/excessbaggage/

http://www.reduser.net/forum/showthread.php?54514-Airline-Baggage-Media-Pass


____________________________________
Scarlet X # 1859 “Bettie Page”
“… preparing to ‘whip’ the competition …”

Zeiss Lenses:

CY 21/2.8
ZF 28/2.0
CY 35-70/3.4
CY 50/1.4
ZF100/2.0

Nikon Lenses:
G 14-24/2.8
G 24-70/2.8
D 80-200/2.8

Tokina Lenses:

11-16/2.8

 

[Don V. Stephens III]

For US airlines, here are some links:

SOUTHWEST

"Media cameras are exempt from the sizing box restriction imposed on other carryon luggage, and, if carried onboard, must be stowed in accordance with FAA safety regulations. If the camera is to be secured in a seat, however, a ticket must be purchased for that seat.

Camera, film, video, lighting, and sound equipment will be accepted when presented by a representative of a network or local television broadcasting company or a commercial filmmaking company. A fee of $50 will be charged for each item in excess of the free baggage allowance. Media equipment will not be assessed oversized or overweight charges."

AMERICAN:

“Audio/Visual Equipment
Camera, film, lighting, and sound equipment will be charged a rate of $50 USD per piece when tendered by representatives of network or local television broadcasting companies, commercial film-making companies, professional photographers, the federal government, Department of Defense or the American Society of Media Photographers. These rates apply to travel within the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and international destinations. A maximum of 25 pieces is allowed per organization/company per American Eagle flight or 40 pieces for American Airlines flights. This policy is subject to seasonal and permanent baggage embargoes. The maximum size and weight allowances are subject to the policies in place for the destination."

DELTA:

Media Bags

Camera, film, video tape, lighting and sound equipment that is tendered by representatives of network or local television broadcasting companies or commercial film-making companies will be accepted as baggage at the fees noted below. Valid Photo ID with Company Insignia will be required.

1st Bag
Domestic Same as regular baggage allowance if no more than 50 lbs. (23 kg)/62 inches. If overweight / oversize, flat media rate of 50 USD/CAD* applies.

2nd Bag
Same as regular baggage allowance if no more than 50 lbs. (23 kg)/62 inches. If overweight / oversize, flat media rate of 50 USD/CAD* applies.

Additional Bags
3rd-25th bags 50 USD/CAD* each if no more than 100 lbs. (45 kg) and 115 total linear inches*"