Will Antlers Fly On United Airlines?

by
posted on December 28, 2009
ahwire_ah2015_fs.jpg (1)

Headline: Antlers won't fly on United Airlines

Updated Headline: Airline responds to feedback, amends antler/horn policy

The Summary: On Dec. 16, LA Times outdoor news-blogger Kelly Burgess reported United Airlines' proposed ban on transporting horn or antler hunting trophies in carry-on and checked baggage.

Update: Due to a public outcry led by NRA-ILA and other pro-hunting groups such as Safari Club International and many sportsmen, United has reversed it's recently introduced policy. It will now accept horns and antlers as checked baggage, but trophy-lugging hunters must follow new packaging rules and can expect to pay an additional handling fee.

Jeff's Take: While United claims they were concerned that antlers stowed as checked baggage would damage other people's baggage while in transit (that's a first!), the conspiracy theorist in me believes that the no-antler policy was just the most recent scheme by airlines to make hunters' lives miserable. First, some airlines tried to ban all firearms from even checked baggage. Then they drew up ridiculous polices on traveling with ammo; not long ago it mandated use of TSA-approved locks on gun cases, now it says not to use them. Fact is, if it weren't for NRA-ILA and its grassroots lobbying effort over the last decade, Americans would not be able to transport guns or antlers via air travel. But in this case, I do give some credit to United for reversing an ill-conceived new policy.

Recommended Gear (post ban): Bungee straps, hiking boots, a mule, 30-days rations; (post-antler policy reversal): duct tape for covering antler tips, cash

Alternate Headline: Trophy Reindeer Ride The Steel Sleigh Again

Latest

Draper Shooting S20 Hunter
Draper Shooting S20 Hunter

#SundayGunday: Sako S20 Hunter

Get a closer look at the Sako S20 Hunter, the latest addition to our #SundayGunday series.

Local Legends: Why Butch and Harold Still Prowl the Big Woods

The experience of two Vermont hunters shows it’s never too late to find a new hunting partner.

Non-Toxic Shot Roundup

Contributor Mike Roux discusses the ins and outs of non-toxic shot with his audience.

First Look: Garmin GPSMAP 67 and eTrex SE Handheld GPS Units

Whether you want a high-tech hunting device that’s loaded with sophisticated features or simply need an easy-to-use GPS to avoid getting lost in the woods, Garmin’s new handhelds have you covered.

Henry Repeating Arms Donates $25,000 to Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever

Henry Repeating Arms has announced a donation of $25,000 to Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever as part of its $1 million silver anniversary pledge and the company’s commitment to safeguarding America’s outdoors and hunting traditions.

Hardware: CVA Cascade XT

The new XT (X-Treme) is CVA’s precision-oriented rifle in the company’s popular Cascade rifle series, and boasts several features that make it an ideal multipurpose hunting rifle. 

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.