Air Transport

[deermeister]

This fall, I get to fly out to Montana to deer hunt. I haven't flown since 2000. Are any airlines "better" (that is, more accomodating toward firearms) than others, and do your rifles get there intact? What do I need to know, and what airline approved cases are best?

[Rocky Raab]

I'd strongly suggest you go to the website of the airline you think you'll be using and print a copy of their firearms policy. Take it with you to the airport.

The last time I flew with a rifle, I got told completely opposite things at each end of the trip. If I'd had their own policy paper with me, it would have helped a LOT!

Each airline can have rules over and above what the FAA and TSA have, so it can be very tough. Some airlines are much more gun-friendly than others.

I'd wager that you'd have no problem at all at the Montana end, those folks LOVE hunters.