Book A Cycling Tour
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Share on Google Plus Share on LinkedIn Share on Email
Flying With a Bike

Cycling Blog

Flying With a Bike

Tweet This
Share This
Bike Boxes Image

October 2nd, 2015

Going on a cycling holiday abroad and flying with a bike can sometimes be a hassle, especially when each airline has its own bicycle policy and excess baggage charge system.

We’ve heard some horror stories of people’s experiences trying to travel with a bike, so we thought we’d put together a conclusive guide to help your next attempt to take a bike on holiday a bit easier.

The information in this guide is based on flying in economy class: if you’re flush and flying business and above, they are usually more generous with baggage so you’ll probably be fine.

Bike Boxes At The Airport

Our top tip? Low-cost airlines may look cheaper initially, but if the carrier charges for bicycles it will bump up the cost significantly! If you shop around you may be able to save some money and fly on a nicer airline!

If we’ve missed any airlines let us know and we’ll get them added!

[accordion autoclose=false clicktoclose=true]

[accordion-item title=”ANA” id=ANA]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Combined dimensions must be below 158cm

Fees
If the bike is larger than this, the excess charge varies depending on departure and destination: see information on the airline’s website

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None given[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Aegean Airlines” id=Aegean]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 32kg
Must be below 2m in length

Fees
The fee is €55 per direction

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Aer Lingus” id=Lingus]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg

Fees
If it weighs more than 23kg, the per direction excess fee is €40 if booked in advance or €50 on the day if you are not travelling through the USA, €75 if travelling through the USA

Book in advance?
Required via the airline’s contact page

Bike boxes
Available from Amsterdam only for $20

Packing instructions
“There is a maximum of 10 bikes per flight (or 6 on flights to/from Prague, Lisbon, Warsaw, Frankfurt, Zurich, Vienna, Amsterdam, Budapest).
There is a maximum of 1 per customer.
The handlebars shall be lowered and fixed sideways, the pressure of the tyres reduced to avoid any problems in the unlikely event of pressurisation changes during flight and, if possible, invert the pedals”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Aeroflot” id=Aeroflot]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
No size is specified – we recommend asking when booking

Fees
You are entitled to one piece of cargo luggage in economy, so if you have a bike and a bag you will be charged €50 per direction for the bike

Book in advance?
You are required to book the bike in before flying

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
No information is given on how to pack the bike: a bike box is advised

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”AeroMexico” id=Mexico]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
The bike must weigh under 45kg
Length limitations are 204cm in narrow-body planes, 294cm in wide-body planes

Fees
$50 per flight if paid at the airport or $40 if paid in advance

Book in advance?
You are not required to book in advance, but it is advised to find out what size plane you will be flying on

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
No information is given on how to pack the bike: a bike box is advised

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Air Astana” id=Astana]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
None specified

Fees
It costs €50 per flight

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“This will include the removal of pedals and deflation of tyres”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Air Canada” id=Canada]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
The bike must weigh under 32kg and the combined dimensions must total less than 292cm

Fees
Their is a $50 flat rate per extra piece of luggage plus an additional $25 for first piece, $35 for second piece and $100 beyond that

Book in advance?
You are not required to book in advance, but it is recommended. You can contact the airline here

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“The bicycle must be placed with handlebars fixed sideways and pedals removed in a rigid and/or hard shell container specifically designed for shipping or in a bicycle suitcase (in the case of collapsible bicycles). Tires must be partially deflated.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Air China” id=China]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
The combined dimensions must be below 158cm

Fees
Excess baggage fees depend on the destinations of departure and arrival, a document outlining the charges can be downloaded here

Book in advance?
You are not required to book in advance, but it is recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“The bicycle must be packed properly with handlebars turned sideways and pedals are removed.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Air France” id=France]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh under 23kg and be smaller than 120 x 90cm

Fees
$55 per flight for flights within Europe, for other destinations see their website here

Book in advance?
You must book your bike more than 48 hours in advance of your flight

Bike boxes
These are available at some airports, but it doesn’t specify which

Packing instructions
“Remove the pedals, remove the front wheel and attach it to the frame, fix the handlebars to the side (parallel to the frame), place your bike, folding bike or tandem in a protective container (cardboard, hard plastic, etc.)”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Air India” id=India]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
There are very specific size limitations depending on route, see this page to find which applies for your flight

Fees
No information is given on cost

Book in advance?
We recommend booking in advance and getting written confirmation of any agreed fees / size limitations

Bike boxes
No information is given

Packing instructions
No information is given

[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Air Malta” id=Malta]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
No size is specified on the website

Fees
The fee is €30 per bike per flight

Book in advance?
You must book in advance through this page

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is this page[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Air New Zealand” id=AirNewZealand]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
No size specified

Fees
No cost specified

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
These are available for NZD25 (~£10)

Packing instructions
“Remove or turn handle bars sideways.
Turn in or remove pedals.
Mountain bikes may be fitted with struts containing compressed nitrogen gas. These bikes can only be accepted as checked baggage if the gas pressure does not exceed 200KPa (Kilopascal), or 29 PSI (Pounds per square inch).
Small (not exceeding 50ml) non-flammable gas cartridges for the purpose of inflating tyres are permitted to be carried in checked baggage.
Deflation of the tyres is not necessary.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Air Serbia” id=AirSerbia]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
There are 3 sizes for sports equipment:
Small: up to 15kg and/or 140cm length
Medium: 15-32kg, 141-200cm length
Large: 32-45kg, 201-277 length

Fees
A bike can count toward your free luggage allowance, but if it becomes excess then the fee depends on the size and destination. See here for details

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“The wheels shall be taken off
The wheels shall be fastened to the center of the bicycle
We advise you to pack your bicycle in a protective box.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Alitalia” id=Alitalia]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Below 23kg to be included in allowance

Fees
Excess baggage fees apply if over 23kg and depend on size and destination, see here

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“Make sure the equipment is properly packaged in containers or wrapped to protect it during loading and unloading”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”American Airlines” id=AmericanAirlines]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Below 62 inches combined dimensions and weight below 50lbs

Fees
$150 per direction if over specified size

Book in advance?
Yes, via this link

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“Non motorised bikes only
Only eligible if:
Bike is in a hard-sided case, bike bag or box built for bike transport
Handlebars are fixed sideways
Pedals are removed; or pedals and handlebars are wrapped in plastic foam or a similar material”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Arik Air” id=Arik]You can take a bike on this airline.
It is unclear whether it can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
None specified

Fees
None specified

Book in advance?
Required: very little info available on site, we recommend calling

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None specified

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Asiana Airlines” id=Asiana]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
“When the total weight of baggage including the bicycle does not exceed the free baggage allowance (23kg), no extra charges are applied.“

Fees
$60 per flight in Europe
See here chart for other destinations

Book in advance?
Not required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“Non motorised
To transport a bicycle as checked baggage, the handles must be fixed, pedals must be removed and the bicycle shall be properly packed.
High-value bicycles should be packed with extra care to prevent damage. “

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Austrian” id=Austrian]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Below 23kg and combined dimensions below 158cm

Fees
If over allowance: €50 per flight in Europe, €100 intercontinental

Book in advance?
Yes, via this link

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None provided

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Avianca” id=Avianca]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Combined dimensions must be below 230cm
Must weigh below 23kg

Fees
No information available

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“non-motorized with a single seat with folding handlebars and pedals removed”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Azerbaijan Airlines” id=Azerbaijan]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Combined dimensions must be below 190cm
Must weigh below 23kg

Fees
If excess, €50 per flight
If more than 1 bicycle, €100 each for extras

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“Front wheel removed, handlebar is turned 90 degrees in relation to the wheel, pedals removed) in a cover or hard package (box)”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Biman Bangladesh” id=Biman]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 20kg
Bikes are not given special consideration: just part of luggage allowance

Fees
Excess baggage charges per kg will be calculated at the rate of 1.5% of the Economy class normal IATA fare.

Book in advance?
Recommended to clarify cost

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Brussels Airlines” id=Brussels]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg
1 per customer

Fees
€50/€100 per flight for Europe/intercontinental flights

Book in advance?
Not required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Bulgaria Air” id=Bulgaria]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
If it weighs less than 23kg and combined dimensions are below 200cm, it’s considered a piece of baggage (no fee)

Fees
If it weighs between 23-32kg the fee is €50
If combined dimensions are 158-203cm the fee is €70
For an additional piece 23kg x 158cm the fee is €50

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”British Airways” id=BritishAirways]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
The combined dimensions must be below 190cm for it to be included in your free luggage allowance

Fees
Excess fee depends on where you booked and where you’re flying from/to. Specific information can be found here

Book in advance?
Not necessary

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“Non-motorised only
Pack the bike in a protective case or bag
Remove the pedals or fix them inwards
Fix the handlebars sideways
Deflate the tyres to reduce the risk of damage”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Cathay Pacific Airways” id=CathayPacific]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must be below 30kg to be counted toward your free baggage allowance

Fees
Excess fees are separated by departure and destination, see here

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“Non-motorized single-seat only
Only accepted if:
Handlebars are fixed and tightened sideways or parallel to the frame or enclosed in plastic foam or similar material
Pedals are removed or fixed inwards or enclosed in plastic foam or similar material
Tyres are deflated
Passenger must pack bicycle in a strong and protective hard case or recognised bicycle box.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”China Eastern” id=ChinaEast]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
If it weighs below 23kg and combined dimensions are below 158cm it’s free

Fees
CNY1,000 if over length, over weight, or too many items. charges accumulate.
CNY1000 is ~£100

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”China Southern” id=ChinaSouth]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Not specified

Fees
Not specified

Book in advance?
Strongly recommended as no info is given on the site
Call the CSN sales service hotline 95539 for more information

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Croatia Airlines” id=Croatia]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
No limitations are specified

Fees
€50 per flight

Book in advance?
Recommended to ensure size is correct

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Delta Airlines” id=Delta]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance if flying to/from Europe.

Size
If combined dimensions are less than 292cm and weight is less than 70lbs, no charge
If weight is 70-100lbs there is a charge
Bikes over 100lbs are not allowed

Fees
The charge for bikes 70-100lbs is €125 per flight

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“Non-motorised only
Your bike must be packaged in a container (cardboard, canvas, hard shell, etc.) in one of the following ways: handlebars fixed sideways and pedals removed, or handlebars and pedals encased in plastic, Styrofoam or other similar material”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”EasyJet” id=EasyJet]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Bikes must weigh below 32kg

Fees
£35/€45 per flight paid online / £45/€60 per flight paid at the airport

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“The bicycle must be packaged in a bicycle box or bag
Only one bicycle per box/bag is permitted
No other items can be carried in the bicycle box/bag (i.e. clothing)
The handlebars must be flush with the frame
Pedals must be removed or flush against the frame”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Egypt Air” id=Egypt]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg

Fees
To/from Europe, if overweight the fee is $75 if extra piece or $150 for other destinations
Further info here

Book in advance?
Not required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“One suitably packed bicycle(single seat).
The front wheel must be taken off and fastened to the center of the bicycle.
It is advisable to rotate the handle bar 90 degrees and tighten it in this position.
The pedals shall also be removed.
The bikes shall be packed in a Carton box or in a special plastic box to protect them from damage.
The tires must be partially deflated.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”El Al” id=El Al]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must be below 15kg and combined dimensions smaller than 140cm to be part of your luggage allowance

Fees
If below 15kg and 140cm but above your allowed amount of bags the fee is $70/$100 for short/long flight (short is below 5.5 hours)
If your bike is 16-32kg and 141-277cm the fee is $70/$200

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“Remove pedals
Dismantle handlebars
Let out part of the air in the wheels and separate one of them from the body of the bicycle
Pack the bicycle in a box or special case, to protect it from damage and to prevent the leakage of hydraulic fluid”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Emirates” id=Emirates]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Combined dimensions must be below 150cm to be free
If they are between 150cm and 300cm there is an extra charge
If they are above 300cm the bike can’t can’t be carried

Fees
Excess fee is $175 per direction

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None provided

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Ethiopian Airlines” id=Ethiopian]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg

Fees
The fees per flight are €40 in Europe, €80 outside Europe

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Etihad Airways” id=Etihad]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
To/from Brazil, Canada, US: combined dimensions must be below 158cm
To/from all other destinations: combined dimensions must be below 207cm
On all routes: must weigh below 32kg

Fees
If it exceeds size, the fees depend on your journey. See here

Book in advance?
Not required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”EVA Air” id=EVA]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
“Regardless of the actual dimensions may be considered as a piece of baggage at 158 cm/62 in.”

Fees
Fees depend on departure and destination, see here

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“For non-motorized touring and racing single-seat bicycle with flat tires and proper package only
Rotate handle to 90 degrees and tighten, remove or turn the pedals inside.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Finnair” id=Finnair]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
No information given

Fees
If you exceed the amount of allowed bags in Europe/Middle East the charge is €15, or intercontinental €60 per flight.
If your bike exceeds size the fee is €75 per flight

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available, although you can get a discount if you are using a Airshell

Packing instructions
“A bicycle must be packed for transport so that the handlebars are turned parallel to the front wheel, the pedals are removed and the air pressure in the tires is reduced to a minimum.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Germanwings” id=Germanwings]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg

Fees
If over allowance, the fee for short/medium haul flights is €50/£45, and long haul €100/£90

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“Non-motorised only
Please ensure that the handlebars are fixed sideways, the pedals have been removed and the tyres have been deflated.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Gulf Air” id=Gulf]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
1 per customer
Must weigh below 32kg
Combined dimensions must be below 190cm

Fees
There is a minimum fee of $30 per flight to/from Europe, depending on destination. Full info here

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“One non motorized bicycle, which must be placed in a purpose designed protective bag, case or cardboard box. Gulf Air will not supply bicycle boxes. Pedals must be removed, handlebars fixed in line with the frame and tyres deflated to avoid potential damage.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Iberia” id=Iberia]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
No information given

Fees
€75 per leg unless passing through USA / Brazil / Nigeria / Israel when other charges apply

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Yes, €20
Their boxes are 131+72+21 cm, if your bike is bigger you need to source your own

Packing instructions
“Single seat, no motor
Please fold down the handlebars, remove the pedals, take the air out of the wheels and pack it in one of the special boxes we will provide you with.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Iberia Express” id=IberiaExpress]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannt form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
No information provided

Fees
€75 each way, regardless of destination

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Yes, €20
Available “at many airports”

Packing instructions
“Handlebars must be turned sideways so they are in line with the frame, pedals must be removed, and the tyres deflated. The bike must be wrapped or packed in a protective bag or case.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”IcelandAir” id=IcelandAir]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Dimensions must be below 221x102x56cm

Fees
Iceland to Europe: €62 each way
Iceland to North America: €74 each way
Europe to North America: €87 each way

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“Bicycle are in a bag or a personal box
Handlebars must be fixed sideways
Pedals must be removed “

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Japan Airlines” id=Japan]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Combined dimensions must be below 62″
Must weigh below 50lbs

Fees
If beyond checked allowance, $150 per bike per flight

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
“Handlebars must be fixed sideways and pedals removed or pedals and handlebars must be enclosed in plastic foam or similar material.
Bike must be in a hard-sided case built for bike transport or a bike bag or box”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Jet Airways” id=Jet]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Size limitations depend on the route, see here

Fees
Excess fees depend on the route, see here
Bikes are exempt from oversize fee

Book in advance?
Recommended because of complicated system

Bike boxes
Not available

Packing instructions
None provided

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Kenya Airways” id=Kenya]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Combined dimensions must be below 300cm
Must weigh below 23kg

Fees
$175 per direction to/from Europe, other destinations here

Book in advance?
Recommended, especially if bike is above size limit

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“Handlebar turned lengthwise.
Pedals shall be removed or folded back.
Lowering the air pressure of the tyre is recommended to reduce the risk of a flat tyre caused by the pressure difference in the air.
Must be in hard box or carton”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”KLM Royal Dutch” id=KLM]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Not specified

Fees
Fees vary by destination, use here

Book in advance?
Recommended to ensure size is suitable

Bike boxes
€20 from Amsterdam only

The airline’s packing instructions
“The handlebars should be turned lengthways along the frame, pedals and other protruding parts should be removed, and tire pressures should be reduced.
If your flight is with a Fokker 70 aircraft, please do not pack your (foldable) bicycle or tandem in a box, but wrap it in soft material such as plastic”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Korean Air” id=Korean]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
No information given

Fees
Each bicycle counts as one piece of checked luggage, but will not incur an oversize fee

Book in advance?
Not required

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“Handlebars must be fixed sideways and pedals removed prior to packing.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Kuwait Airways” id=Kuwait]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 20kg

Fees
Their is a calculator on their site for fees, see here

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“If the bicycle is packed in a carton, the wheels should be removed and tires deflated. If the bicycle in not in a carton, the bicycle should be dismantled and the wheels removed and tires deflated.”[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”LOT Polish Airlines” id=LOT]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 45kg

Fees
Fees per flight are €12 domestic, €50 international, €100 intercontinental

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“A regular bike (no motor/no e-bike), children’s bike, one-wheel bike”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Lufthansa” id=Lufthansa]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 32kg

Fees
If beyond free allowance the fee per flight is €50 continental or €100 intercontinental

Book in advance?
Yes: call +4969 867 997 99

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None provided

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”MEA” id=MEA]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg

Fees
1 free of charge, $200 each beyond that

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“If the bicycle is packed in a carton, the wheels should be removed and tires deflated. If the bicycle in not in a carton, the bicycle should be dismantled and the wheels removed and tires deflated.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Malaysia Airlines” id=Malaysia]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance but not in Europe

Size
Must weigh below 15kg
Accepted in place of one 62 inches (158cm) bag

Fees
The fee is €70 return or €35 one way to/from Europe

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“With handlebars fixed sideways and pedals removed.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Philippine Airlines” id=Philippine]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 15kg

Fees
$25/flight, plus excess per kg if over 15kg

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“Tires must be deflated. Its lamps, mirrors and pedals must be removed. All other parts of the bicycle must be packed in a way they are positioned in the same direction of the main frame.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Qantas” id=Qantas]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 32kg
Combined dimensions must be less than 140x30x80cm
Each bike is one piece of your allocated luggage allowance

Fees
Fees are AUD $30 for domestic flights
Otherwise fee varies per extra 5kg depending on route. see here

Book in advance?
Not required

Bike boxes
Available for purchase at some desks, doesn’t specify where or price

The airline’s packing instructions
“Must be securely packed
Tyres must be deflated
Pedals must be removed
Handlebars must be fixed parallel to the frame
If the bicycles length exceeds 140cm (55in), the front wheel should be removed and fixed beside the rear wheel, inside the bike box”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Qatar Airways” id=Qatar]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
No size specified for items included in luggage allowance
Items beyond allowance must weigh below 25kg with combined dimensions below 217cm

Fees
Europe to Europe: $750, other info here

Book in advance?
Recommended to ensure you won’t incur the fee, as it’s very expensive!

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Royal Air Maroc” id=Maroc]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 32kg with combined dimensions below 300cm

Fees
For Europe: weight below 23kg and dimensions 158cm, the fee is €55
Weight between 23-32kg and dimensions between 158-203cm, the fee is €100
Weight between 23-32kg and dimensions between 203-300cm, the fee is €150
Other destinations vary, see here

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Royal Brunei AIrlines” id=Brunei]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
12kg waiver available, if your bike weighs over that an excess fee is applied
If you incur the excess fee there is no size limit

Fees
Excess charged per kilo, rate depends on departure city. See here

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“Bicycles must be packed in a manner where the handle bars are positioned in the same direction as the bicycle frame. Parts such as pedals, lamps, mirrors, and bicycle stand must be dismantled. Tyres must be deflated.” [/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Royal Jordanian” id=Jordanian]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 32kg

Fees
Fees are charged if your bike is outside your free luggage allowance
If the bike weighs below 23kg, the fee is $110 to/from Europe
If the bike weighs between 23-32kg, the fee is $150 to/from Europe
Other destinations vary, see here

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“Handlebars are turned sideways; the pedals removed, and placed in a sturdy cardboard container”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Ryanair” id=Ryanair]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 30kg

Fees
€60/£60 if booked in advance, €70/£70 if paid on the day, per flight

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“Non-motorised only”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”SAS Scandinavian” id=SAS]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
No information given

Fees
A 40% discount if booked in advance
Prices depend on destination: calculator available here

Book in advance?
Not if your bike is in a carry case
Otherwise you must book in advance here

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“If you check in your bike without a bike carry case, turn the handlebars a quarter-turn, remove the pedals & reduce the tire pressure or deflate them entirely. We also recommend covering the chain.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Saudia” id=Saudia]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 25kg

Fees
SAR100 for each extra item, or SAR100 if overweight (~£18)

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“Must be packed in ‘special bags'”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Singapore Ailines” id=Singapore]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
To US/Brazil your allowance is 1 piece which must weigh below 30kg
Elsewhere you are allowed 2 pieces below 23kg each

Fees
Excess varies depending on location, and is charged per kg
Rates here

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”South African Airways” id=SA]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg
Sizes must be below 200x100x75cm

Fees
One item is free on top of luggage allowance
No information on excess beyond that

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Sri Lankan Airlines” id=Sri]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 30kg
Combined dimensions must be below 158cm

Fees
If over limit: overweight fee is $75
Extra pieces beyond allowance are $250 each

Book in advance?
Required: booking agent will give you packing instructions

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Swiss International Airlines” id=Swiss]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg

Fees
€50 for European flights
€100 for intercontinental flights

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”TAM” id=TAM]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg

Fees
No fee if bike is one of two pieces of luggage
No information on excess fees given

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“Will be accepted properly packaged, only with empty tires, removed pedals and handlebar attached on the side.”[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”TAP Portugal” id=TAP]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg
Combined dimensions must be below 158cm

Fees
If over 23kg the fee is €50 per direction Europe / Africa, €100 per direction intercontinental.

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“The equipment should be packed with the handlebars to the side and the pedals should be removed
Alternatively, the equipment may be wrapped in cellophane or other similar material and packed in a cardboard box.
The handlebars should be turned at a 90º angle and firmly secured in this position.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Tarom” id=Tarom]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg

Fees
Europe: €100 per direction
Intercontinental: €200 per direction

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Thai Airways” id=Thai]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg
1 bike per passanger: no size specified

Fees
If over allowance, £75 per flight if leaving/arriving in Europe
Info for other destinations here
$100 per bike if over allowance

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Tunisair” id=Tunisair]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 23kg
Combined dimensions must be below 158cm

Fees
If over allowance, £75 per flight if leaving/arriving in Europe
Info for other destinations here
If over size, extra £50 per flight

Book in advance?
Recommended

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Turkish Airlines” id=Turkish]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 32kg

Fees
Intercontinental fees depend on destination, see here
In Europe fees are €30 per flight

Book in advance?
Required

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”US Airways” id=US]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Combined dimensions must be below 157cm

Fees
$150 per direction if over 157cm

Book in advance?
Not required

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“The bicycle should be placed in a cardboard or hard-cased bike container. Bicycles not enclosed in a case are still accepted: the handlebars must be fixed sideways and the pedals removed, or bicycle handlebars and pedals must be encased in plastic, foam or similar material for transport. The passenger will be required to sign a release form.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”United Airlines” id=United]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weight below 23kg
Combined dimensions must be below 158cm

Fees
If it weighs over 23kg and/or is bigger than 158cm the fee is $150 per direction in North America, $200 elsewhere

Book in advance?
Recommended: “If your itinerary includes a United Express flight, please contact United for information regarding aircraft cargo hold limits“

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“Handlebars must be fixed sideways and pedals removed, or
All loose items must be enclosed in plastic foam or similar protective material, or
Bicycle should be transported in a sealed box.
United is not liable for damage to bicycles that do not have the handlebars fixed sideways and pedals removed, handlebars and pedals encased in plastic foam or similar material, or bicycles not contained in a cardboard containers or hard-sided cases.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Uzbekistan Airways” id=Uzbekistan]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must weigh below 32kg

Fees
$150 per direction if over allowance

Book in advance?
Required: only accepted via prior agreement

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
None given

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Vietnam Airlines” id=Vietnam]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Various, see below

Fees
Depends on size and destination, see here

Book in advance?
Required, via this link

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“Handle bars are positioned along the length direction of the bike.
Disassemble and pack the bulky parts like: pedal, lamp, mirror, support pole
The tires must be flatted/deflated before being packed
Bike must be packed in box.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Virgin Atlantic” id=Virgin]You can take a bike on this airline.
It can form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
Must be below 23kg

Fees
If above 23kg there is a fee – see website for details

Book in advance?
Not required if it meets the criteria

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“Non-motorised only
Protective box or bag
Partially deflate the tyres to reduce the risk of damage
Turn the handlebars so they’re in line with the frame
Remove any attachments, including pedals
Ensure the gearing is especially well protected
Protect the frame with bubble wrap.”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title=”Vueling” id=Vueling]You can take a bike on this airline.
It cannot form part of your free baggage allowance.

Size
None specified

Fees
€45 each flight

Book in advance?
Not required

Bike boxes
Not available

The airline’s packing instructions
“It should be correctly packed, labelled and well protected so it can be carried safely (disassembled as much as possible, with the tyres deflated and pedals removed).”

The airline’s webpage for flying with a bike is here[/accordion-item]
[/accordion]

A few disclaimers:

  • If your journey includes more than one airline, double check your bike is suitable under both policies
  • This information is correct at the time of writing but airlines are liable to change their policies: we always recommend double checking with the airline if you are unsure
  • This information is offered as a guide: Ride25 can’t be held responsible for any fees incurred when flying!

Leave a Reply

Sign Up For Updates

* indicates required