Canadians...how are we going to deal with the new flight rules?

[skydiver_8]

Apparently since the last terrorist was thwarted over Canadian air space, new rules have come into effect immediately. You are now allowed to have only a small purse as a carry on. I plan on taking a trip to the Caymen Islands in the near future and have a fair arenal of photographic cameras and lenses I'd like to bring. Short of wearing kilt with a large sporan, how should I pack my equipment to ensure none is damaged or stolen? I've seen the videos on the net where the handlers can literally open your luggage with a pencil, running it up the zipper to open it and zipping it up so that it is virtually undetectable. Any thoughts?

[Karl Johnston]

I just drive everywhere, or drive and then take a cruise ship...mind you the only place I ever take a cruise ship would be the barge to Yellowknife or the ferry in between vancouver and victoria. Flying is too expensive...I'm a photographer not a doctor


$1200 to edmonton? No thank you.
:p

For you to carry your photo gear I suggest a pelican case to make sure it is protected, if you are worried about that. Put it in the luggage bay would be the most likely option

[GORDO]

As I understand it as of now a camera is aloud as a carry on but nothing is said of lenses and such.Make a call to custom's and get clarification of whats aloud to be taken on board in reference to camera equipment.We all know it's going to change again the next time some idiot decides to try it again.GORDO

[macroimage]

I don't plan on flying again until the airlines stop treating their customers as criminals, and they start putting the real risky people through security each day, I.E. the baggage handlers, caterers, and everyone who works on the tarmac or has access to the plane.

[skydiver_8]

- No carry-on baggage will be permitted, with the exception of a small
purse, diaper bag, laptop bag or backpack. Roller bags and larger
backpacks must now be checked in.
- Arrive at the airport two to three hours before scheduled departure
- Required medication should be carried with you, rather than put in
checked baggage
- New security regulations prohibit the use of Live TV on flights
originating in Canada and destined to the U.S., so parents should
bring games, books or other toys to occupy little WestJetters
- Before leaving home, check for updated flight times at
www.westjet.com (http://www.westjet.com/)
- International flights over U.S. airspace (eg. to Mexico or the
Caribbean) are not affected by these new measures


Looks like I might have lucked out....flights to the Caribbean are not affected with Westjet. Whew.

[tonyniev]

I have been traveling around the US and I normally bring my firearms- usually my Colt 1911 45 caliber, the airlines have special rules for firearms and I check this in a locked box, unloaded and separate from the bullets the TSA have no rights to open the locked firearms (that has a small ticket indicating it is a firearm). Is there a way you can check in the camera gears say inside a locked pelican gear that you have the airline agent to check before you lock it,
BTW I stay in the check in area for about 10 mins in case the TSA wants to see the pistol.

[Absolutely Fabulous]

get travel insurance.

[Rubi Jane]

I think in this day & age our options are hard cases like Pelicans, with a TSA lock and adequate insurance, whether it be a floater to your household insurance or inland marine coverage on a commercial insurance policy.

As 'consumers' we worry about checking a gear bag with a body and a few lenses. Pros will check numerous gear bags when shooting on location. Be well insured and if it's business critical, know where you can get rentals/replacements at your destination in case something goes missing.

[skydiver_8]

I have been traveling around the US and I normally bring my firearms- usually my Colt 1911 45 caliber, the airlines have special rules for firearms and I check this in a locked box, unloaded and separate from the bullets the TSA have no rights to open the locked firearms (that has a small ticket indicating it is a firearm). Is there a way you can check in the camera gears say inside a locked pelican gear that you have the airline agent to check before you lock it,
BTW I stay in the check in area for about 10 mins in case the TSA wants to see the pistol.


I'm planning my trip in March or April and I hope that things get ironed out by then...I'm guessing, as the rest of the people on this Board, that I'll be out to purchase a hardcase and a lock, topped with appropriate insurance. Thanks for the input.

[skydiver_8]

get travel insurance.

Clearly, this'll be one of my extra purchases....along with the hard cover case.

[skydiver_8]

I think in this day & age our options are hard cases like Pelicans, with a TSA lock and adequate insurance, whether it be a floater to your household insurance or inland marine coverage on a commercial insurance policy.

As 'consumers' we worry about checking a gear bag with a body and a few lenses. Pros will check numerous gear bags when shooting on location. Be well insured and if it's business critical, know where you can get rentals/replacements at your destination in case something goes missing.

As with most people, I'd rather bring my camera gear on the plane with me after being thoroughly searched by the authorities. I wish that we could rely on their ability to do their job properly than have a reverse-onus situation on the 99.9 % of travelers who aren't dangerous. Insurance and hard case seems like the way to go....thanks for the reply.

[Agent 655]

The no carry on bit was only for the next week for now.

It is so obvious it is just a scam by the airlines.

Step 1) - Charge for a second checked bag
Step 2) - Charge now for the first checked bag (and more for the second)
Step 3) - Due to "Terror" concerns, try out not allowing most carry on items
Step 4) - Since there were no "Terror Attacks" while trying step 3, claim it was a success and prohibit carry on items for all flights...

MOD EDIT: No politics

[WaltA]

The no carry on bit was only for the next week for now.

It is so obvious it is just a scam by the airlines.

Step 1) - Charge for a second checked bag
Step 2) - Charge now for the first checked bag (and more for the second)
Step 3) - Due to "Terror" concerns, try out not allowing most carry on items
Step 4) - Since there were no "Terror Attacks" while trying step 3, claim it was a success and prohibit carry on items for all flights...



What makes you think the airlines get to write the rules?

Or even influence them?

[hawkeye60]

I don't plan on flying again until the airlines stop treating their customers as criminals, and they start putting the real risky people through security each day, I.E. the baggage handlers, caterers, and everyone who works on the tarmac or has access to the plane.

I agree completely, it will be a long time before I get on a plane again unless I absolutely have no alternative.

They allowed a guy on a plane who's on a terror watch list, who's buying a one way international flight ticket for cash and on top of that, he had no luggage. And if that's not enough of a tip off, his father met with the CIA informing them about his son being a radical.

And they way they choose to deal this giant screw-up?? Punish the passengers.

[Agent 655]

What makes you think the airlines get to write the rules?

Or even influence them?

This rule change was 100% implemented by United! No TSA or other government intervention yet (besides starting to look at new ways to hassel people!)

[bigrob]

Many security experts in the UK are suggesting profiling so that those who fit "the profile" go through more stringent searches.

The problem with this in the UK is that it would mean more Muslims being searched. They would then scream about their "human rights" & so would lots of white middle class do gooders.

Next our stupid courts would probably ban these searches. Mad mad mad.

[ssim]

I don't plan on flying again until the airlines stop treating their customers as criminals, and they start putting the real risky people through security each day, I.E. the baggage handlers, caterers, and everyone who works on the tarmac or has access to the plane.

You've obviously never worked at an airport. All employees are put through security screening. Not just anyone can get one of those little cards they have to wear all the time. As a retired airline employee I take exception to you calling them thieves. No doubt there have been occurrences of employees getting sticky fingers but I guess whatever industry you work in you are all angels. I don't care what industry you work in there are going to be those undesirables. If you are not going to fly until this all gets cleaned up you will have a very long wait.

The no carry on bit was only for the next week for now.

It is so obvious it is just a scam by the airlines.

Step 1) - Charge for a second checked bag
Step 2) - Charge now for the first checked bag (and more for the second)
Step 3) - Due to "Terror" concerns, try out not allowing most carry on items
Step 4) - Since there were no "Terror Attacks" while trying step 3, claim it was a success and prohibit carry on items for all flights...

MOD EDIT: No politics

As per what Walt said. This is an ugly mess that we are in. It goes so much further than those that haven't been there saying that the airlines are trying to steal their baggage and rip them off. If the most recent person had managed to ignite his underwear the public would be protesting that the airlines didn't protect them enough. The airlines are literally caught in the middle between the governments and the terrorists. No matter what they do the public feels poorly treated.

It is possible to pack ones gear in a case that can be checked. Of course there is concern. That is why I don't use pelican type cases that just scream something valuable inside. I use a hard sided suitcase and make sure that everything is packed relatively tight so that it doesn't have room to move around. These cases of mine have been across the continent several times as well as inter continental a few times. Never have I lost anything nor had any damage.

The world has bigger issues to deal with than worrying about how some people may feel about not being able to carry their items on board their flight. I have no idea where this going to end but I do feel that we have not yet seen the worst of it. I have already written to my member of parliament with my concerns over the rule changes. They are penalizing 99% of the traveling public for those few that want to do us harm.

The best advice that I could give for those planning any trips is to refer to the airline's website that they are traveling on along with the governments security governing body, for the USA it is Transportation Security Agency (http://www.tsa.gov/) and in Canada Canadian Air Transportation Security Authority (http://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/home.aspx?id=1&pname=Home_Accueil&lang=en).

[macroimage]

You've obviously never worked at an airport. All employees are put through security screening. Not just anyone can get one of those little cards they have to wear all the time. As a retired airline employee I take exception to you calling them thieves. No doubt there have been occurrences of employees getting sticky fingers but I guess whatever industry you work in you are all angels. I don't care what industry you work in there are going to be those undesirables. If you are not going to fly until this all gets cleaned up you will have a very long wait.


I didn't call them thieves. That must have been someone else.

There was a radio show interview here where they said that the airport doesn't put all employees through the metal detectors and security scanners every day like the passengers. They were criticizing how secure things really are if they are only checking the passengers and not every person, every time, they go into the secure part of the airport. Checking them once when hired isn't enough. It is not about theft, it is about their ability to put things into baggage or onto planes.

[Kasrielle]

Well, I need to travel to Nashville from northern BC to visit my mom who is elderly (79) and in poor health. I really want to take my equipment with me to get photos of her and my dad, as I may not get another chance. But I'm not checking 10 grand worth of equipment - I'll take my little P&S. In the end, getting the photos is more important than the quality of them...

And I looked at renting a car, but it would cost 3 times as much as the plane, and take 4 days each way...

[PBeeee]

You can always fedex your gear ahead, be sure to contact the hotel where you are staying and just tell them you are sending a package to hold for you. You certainly could fedex to your parents. It seems likely this will sort out in 3-4 weeks before the OP travels, we have been travelling this whole time and have not seen anything too bad. And I have a metal leg so I have gotten special scrutiny for some time now but I am not seeing anything out of the ordinary. Canada Air does seem to have reacted quite strongly but really, the airlines are damned if they do and damned if they don't. We fly again in four days and I fully expect things to stay in flux for at least that long.

[suecassidy]

Bring your camera body on board and rent lenses? This just sucks as I travel a lot, both domestically and internationally, and I always bring my gear home to Canada when I go. It infuriates me. Anybody follow the "United Breaks Guitars" song series about the guy from Nova Scotia who had his favorite guitar broken by United Airlines? Hilarious. You Canadians will know what I"m talking about....

[Wilt]

I had a titanium frame hard sided 29" Samsonite case, which had its frame BROKEN (not merely bent)...so if they can break titanium, I bet they can really do a number on what's inside.

[WaltA]

I didn't call them thieves. That must have been someone else.

There was a radio show interview here where they said that the airport doesn't put all employees through the metal detectors and security scanners every day like the passengers. They were criticizing how secure things really are if they are only checking the passengers and not every person, every time, they go into the secure part of the airport. Checking them once when hired isn't enough. It is not about theft, it is about their ability to put things into baggage or onto planes.

There are a number of us here that have (and still) work in the aviation industry. I have two things to say to you.

1 - Stop believing all that you hear on TV and read in the paper (or on the Internet).

2 - Every airline and airport is different.

These guys are just trying to sell papers (or TV time). There are very few professional aviation people who will make those kinds of generalizations to the media.

If that was made about a particular airport - I might give it some credibility - but to make a blanket statement like that about all airports.

Just not true.

[zoom_zoom]

I think you would be allow to bring your camera body mounted with one 'smaller' lens on board as that would qualify as a 'camera'. Other than that, the other option is to bring a point-and-shoot and use that on your travels. It sucks.

[zoom_zoom]

I agree completely, it will be a long time before I get on a plane again unless I absolutely have no alternative.

They allowed a guy on a plane who's on a terror watch list, who's buying a one way international flight ticket for cash and on top of that, he had no luggage. And if that's not enough of a tip off, his father met with the CIA informing them about his son being a radical.

And they way they choose to deal this giant screw-up?? Punish the passengers.


If the above are the correct facts in what has transpired, I agree... somebody(s) needs to be fired. I know I'm speaking in hindsight, but shouldn't that have raised alarm bells and shouldn't that have put the person under closer examination.

[tangypsy]

It is not the airlines making the rules but the Canadian Air Transport Authority
From their web site.....

Temporary emergency measures include no carry-on bags to U.S.A.
Effective immediately, CATSA is implementing temporary emergency measures at security checkpoints under the direction of Transport Canada. These measures are in response to a failed terrorist attack on board an aircraft from Amsterdam to Detroit on December 25, 2009. These new measures will affect all flights from Canada to the United States.

U.S.A. bound passengers are permitted zero carry-on bags effective immediately and lasting for several days. Passengers travelling within Canada are still permitted two carry-on bags (although to make the screening process most efficient, fewer carry-on items is preferred). [/COLOR]
These rules will be strictly enforced during this period. There will be no flexibility.

Carry-on bag means items to which a passenger has access to during a flight, but does NOT include personal items such as small purses, cameras, coats, items for care of infants, laptop computers, diplomatic or consular bags, crutches, canes, walkers, containers carrying life sustaining items, medication or medical devices, musical instruments, or any special needs items."
For up to date info go to

http://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/home.aspx?id=1&pname=Home_Accueil&lang=en

Actually some of the airlines have waived the cost for extra checked baggage.

[cy88]

Travelling to Hawaii on Wednesday, I've called CATSA to asked in advance, and was told that SLR + Lenses are OK. As I've been reading around a few forums, it seems that it's totally random and discretionary. With that said I've e-mailed CATSA so that I can get a written copy of what they want as the rule isn't clear. Hopefully this will help someone out there:

Original question:

Hello there,

I have a question in regards to carry on personal items.

I read that "cameras" are allowed to be carried on. I have an upcoming photography/vacation trip to Hawaii on Jan 6th, and planning to carry on one Digital SLR camera and 3 - 4 lenses in one bag as personal item (no laptop computers or anything else other than travel documents). Will I run into issue due to the size of it? Or is there any detail restrictions around this? Does the definition of "cameras" include digital SLR and lenses?


Response:

Current security measures stipulate that passengers are permitted to transport personal items such as medication or medical devices, small purses, cameras, coats, items for care of infants, laptop computers, crutches, canes, walkers, containers carrying life sustaining items, a special needs item, musical instruments, or diplomatic or consular bags. The SLR camera, lenses and its respective carrying case are permitted at the pre-board screening checkpoint.


With that said, I will stick with my original plan and bring 1 body + 4 lenses on Wednesday :)

[skydiver_8]

Travelling to Hawaii on Wednesday, I've called CATSA to asked in advance, and was told that SLR + Lenses are OK. As I've been reading around a few forums, it seems that it's totally random and discretionary. With that said I've e-mailed CATSA so that I can get a written copy of what they want as the rule isn't clear. Hopefully this will help someone out there:

Original question:


Response:


With that said, I will stick with my original plan and bring 1 body + 4 lenses on Wednesday :)

Don't forget to post your results....I'm very interested in how your adventure goes at the airport....thanks for posting.

[vmaidens@gmail.com]

I called CATSA last night as I need to fly on Monday and need to know exactly what no bag means...seeing as its not 100% clearly explained.

So here's what I found out.

If you have a laptop, you can bring a small bag for it, with its accessories and nothing more. DO not bring bring hard drives, usb sticks, etc. Mice and headsets are ok.

If you want to bring a camera with lenses, thats fine. But it must be in its own bag, do not bring a bean bag, tripod must be checked.

If you have a combo Camera bag with laptop slot, do not use it. It will not be allowed. You can bring the exact same items as you would in the single bag...but in 2.

Not sure how this is a measure of security but its not my rule. They also said to check the aforementioned site above daily for changes as they are expecting a change between now and Monday the 11th.

[rammy]

get travel insurance.

Only covers up to a small limit of camera equipment. Check the policy before you buy.

[WaltA]

Yeah, with the announcement today that they will be installing 44 full body scanners at CDN airports it will be interesting to see if that allows them to relax the rules about carry-ons.

[vmaidens@gmail.com]

So has anyone tested the new rules yet?

I'm flying monday....

[WaltA]

Are you flying to the US? Pictures in the Van Sun this morning of huge lineups for US flights from Calgary yesterday.

Not sure why they had pictures of the Calgary airport lineups but no word on how bad it was at Vancouver airport.

I guess things are always worse in Calgary - cause BC is "The best place to live " ;)

[WaltA]

Also, according to their websites the carry-on rules seem to be different for Air Canada and WestJet.
Check it out and also the CATSA one before you fly.

[lungdoc]

For the life of me I don't know why the terrorists don't just blow up the massive security lineups instead of the plane - probably could even be just a bomber and not a suicide bomber. Often many more people and imagine the disruption. Good thing they're mostly idiots. Glad I mostly just drive to our cottage!

[vmaidens@gmail.com]

Hah yeah flying out of Pearson to the US. I suspect its not going to be pleasant

[borealis]

Hi all, I'm in Maui right now, I flew out of Vancouver on New Years Day.

Brought a 5d2, 70-200/4 IS, 17-40/4, 50/1.8, 430ex2, 1.4 converter, extension tube and whatever else fit in an old Lowepro something-trek bag. Assorted stuff went in pockets. A small Manfrotto and the rest of the less-expensive stuff went into a Crumpler 7 Millon Dollar Home in a non-descript suitcase. Westjet was allowing an extra checked bag, I think most airlines still are.

I carried a netbook in my hands through security and stuffed it into the back of the Lowepro after going through.

I was pretty choked about the new rules, but checked the CATSA site ahead of time, got to Vancouver airport early, and checked with a CATSA agent before trying to go through. I was going to load up my photo vest but couldn't find the durned thing after the big Christmas clean-up. Decided to take only one body, and now it's having issues.

Oh well, my honey-bunny is happy I'm spending more time with her and less time shooting...

[chauncey]

treating their customers as criminals
Dah...some of those customers are criminals.
I live in the Detroit area and would hate to have wreakage raining down on us or anywhere else for that matter. Might not concern you but it does me.

[WaltA]

Hi all, I'm in Maui right now, I flew out of Vancouver on New Years Day.




AND YOUR ON POTN FROM MAUI?????bw!

[griptape]

AND YOUR ON POTN FROM MAUI?????bw!
Some of us post from our cell phones.

[borealis]

AND YOUR ON POTN FROM MAUI?????bw!


Yup- trying to get help with my sick 5D2.

Aren't I the guy who always says never, ever, take just one body anywhere???

[WaltA]

Man, you guys are POTN addicts.

[griptape]

Man, you guys are POTN addicts.
Is there a rehab section of the forums? I'll add it to my favorites if you point me to it.

[snowboarderx]

UPDATED RULES - http://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/file/library/71/english/Exempt%20Items%20-%2008jan10%282%29%20-%20EN.pdf

Professional Camera Equipment is now allowed as a Carry-On

[vmaidens@gmail.com]

Excellent! I just called them back to see what a purpose-designed bag was. I have a combined Camera Bag / Laptop bag. Its all clear as long as the bag is specifically designed for the purpose intended.

[Kasrielle]

I wonder about something like a Kata DR 467 or the Think Tank SWHD? Both are designed for camera equipment AND a laptop. But both are bigger than the 10 x 12 x 5.5 purse restriction. Does anyone know if backpacks are allowed? And when it says electronics allowed but not in a larger bag - I can't put my ipod im by bag, but I can put it in my pocket?

The more info they give the more confused I become...

[vmaidens@gmail.com]

I'll tell you after tomorrow :)

[cy88]

I travelled on Jan 6th to Honolulu with:
5D2
16-35L II
70-200L F2.8IS
35L
85L
270ex
2x circular polarizer
Black rapid strap

Along with these in a crumpler 7MDH:
ipod+headset
cell phone
walet

Absolutely no issue at all, they only had to open up the lens cap to make sure that the lens is a lens. With that said, I don't belong to (or look like) residents from any of the 14 countries that are in question by the TSA.

[vmaidens@gmail.com]

Yeah I had pretty much the same experience yesterday.

I brought the 7d, 70-200, 24-70, 50mm, kenko 1.4 and my black rapid strap. No issues really. Glad I didn't bring a tripod, that likely would have been a deal breaker.

I was kinda surprised that I was able to bring the 8MDH but I needed a laptop bag too and I can make it work, its oversized but I didn't have a problem. I think its pretty loosey goosey still with what the requirements are, I don't think I'd take my experience as gospel considering everything seems to be open to interpretation.

[avicus]

I've been trying to read more information about the travel restrictions but have a quick question for anyone that may have done this.

I am going to be travelling to South America with a Lowepro Primus AW backpack but am worried that security won't allow the backpack as carry on. Has anyone brought a backpack carryon yet? I intend to bring a T1i and 3 lenses along with a netbook and portable hard drive.

I was reading last week off the Westjet website that Laptop backpacks weren't allowed but shoulderbag/briefcase styles were. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

[ssim]

Phone the airlines you are traveling on, check the country's aviation security governing body website and by all means pack to the most restrictive one. Taking specific packing advice on a forum from people you don't know is silly. I can just see the agents response when you said that so and so from POTN said I could.

If you are worried about a particular bag and you are making an important trip make a run to your local airport and talk to the security people. Show them your bag and the items you plan on taking. Get the information from the people that actually enforce the regulations.

[FuzzFace]

I just found this information from the CATSA regarding what you can and can't take on a flight to the us

http://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/file/library/71/english/Exempt Items - 08jan10(2) - EN.pdf

It lists cameras and lenses in a purpose designed carrying case do not count as carry-on luggage and are allowed on the flight.

[WaltA]

Well, it depends where your flying to. My reading is that the "no backpack" policy on applies to flights into the US so travelling SA won't be affected.

This is catsa doc that defines it
http://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/file/library/71/english/Exempt%20Items%20-%2008jan10(2)%20-%20EN.pdf

But it says its only for US flights

So you should check with the Airline you are flying with for their restrictions specifically for the destination you are flying to.

[Karl Johnston]

I got an idea. Let's all found our own airline! We can call it something catchy like "Air Canada" or "Canadian Airways"

Then we can create our own rules, right? Like allowing beavers on. They're practically people too.

[avicus]

Thanks for the advice everyone. I have called in and asked the questions and everyone is correct, it is based on whose at security at the time of your arrival.

I'm curious if anyone has recently gone through airport security with a backpack style camera bag and can share their experience? I see folks have gone through with other bags and was just curious.

I have found articles like this: http://www.torontosun.com/travel/canada/2010/01/17/12498276-sun.html as well.

Thanks

[vmaidens@gmail.com]

I saw a woman with a very small backpack (much smaller than what I'd have taken) and she was told she'd have to check that bag.

[avicus]

Thanks for the info vmaidens!

But now the ban is lifted! http://www.vancouversun.com/travel/travellers+allowed+carry+bags+minister/2461371/story.html

And as an FYI, my backpack is allowed on now but counts as the carryon.

[shayneyasinski]

I am in Mexico and flew from Canada with my 7d 40d 70-200 17-55 and 10-20 sigma , now I was OK going into mexico with my direct flight but my Cousin did a stop in the US and the rules were way different!

If I had to check it I would most likly not take it.

[ssim]

Thanks for the info vmaidens!

But now the ban is lifted! http://www.vancouversun.com/travel/travellers+allowed+carry+bags+minister/2461371/story.html

And as an FYI, my backpack is allowed on now but counts as the carryon.
Why wouldn't your backpack be classified as carryon. Mine has always been part of my two carryon pieces.

I guess I am going to experience this first hand as I going to scoot over to Maui for a few days in February.

[goingsking]

I traveled in the US christmas week and prior to the incident they ran my backpack with camara, lenses, extension cords, chargers etc without any problems. On the way back they took everything out of my backpack and went as far as looking into the lens to see if anything was inside, in particular, the nice and heavy "L" lenses. Over the summer in Australia, you could bring water just about anything except fruit in your bag. I would think the backpack would be the way to go and if they try to get you to check it, complain about the expensive equipment

[ssim]

and if they try to get you to check it, complain about the expensive equipment
I can guarantee you that if a bag doesn't meet the requirements and you somehow get it to the gate and the agent asks you to check it the fact that it may have a camera in it won't matter. Those people are there to enforce the rules and ensure the safety of all passengers.

In the years that I spent in the airline industry I have seen many people get their bags all the way to the gate only to get caught at that point. It is tough to watch the confrontations and knowing full well that the passenger is going to have to surrender that bag no matter how much they complain about the gold bars they are carrying in it. I always make sure that I am well within the limits and carry a printed copy of the most recent carry on rules just in case the agent is not up to date.

Simply because we may have expensive equipment in our carry on does not give us any entitlement on carry on over other passengers. Most certainly right now the security and gate agents are more vigil than they normally are.

Now for a little levity. I had this link emailed to me and it attempts to put a humorous spin on the current situation. YouTube Link (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZfbTlYpKYo)

[vmaidens@gmail.com]

Looks like some relief

http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/mediaroom/releases-2010-h007e-5812.htm

[bjoynes]

I have a Kata 3n1-33 that I bought to travel from Nashville to Vancouver BC for the Olympics. I plan on visiting the airport Saturday and get some advice. Before I go to the airport, does anyone have any experience with this size bag as carry-on. I have checked the dimensions on Delta, which say that the linear length cannot exceed 45 inches which this is just shy of. 19-13-11.

Thanks

Bryn

[vmaidens@gmail.com]

You should be fine with that back, flying out of the US isn't the issue. Getting back on a plane out of Canada is what they are concerned with.

[bjoynes]

I just checked Delta's website, it states

"All carry-on items must meet Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, fit easily in a Size Check unit (approximately 22" x 14" x 9"). The FAA mandates that all carry-on items have to fit under a seat or in an enclosed storage compartment."

Kata website states the bag as, 12.6x9.3x18.1

Your point about the Canada side troubles me some what. My daughter is traveling with us, my be she could burst into tears, which did help at an airport once.

Thanks

Bryn

[ssim]

The dimensions that you give are pretty much the industry standard though Transport Canada is giving you a couple of extra inches at 9 in x 16 in x 22 in. This is very dependant on aircraft type you are on. If you happened to be on one of Delta's Canadair Regional Jets (CRJ) that size is not going to fit and you would probably have to surrender the case at the gate. They will put it in the cargo hold and return it to you immediately upon deplaning at your destination of that leg. I've had to put my AW Trekker into the hold on flights like that and never have I had a problem. I try to board last so that my bag is the last one in and the first one out. I strongly recommend that you check the aircraft type no your itineraries. Even at that it is quite common to have equipment changes at the last minute and you are not guaranteed that you will be on the type of aircraft that you booked on.

[sue.t]

I didn't read the whole thread; sorry in advance if this has been mentioned..

Read an article a while back about a fellow who refuses to trust airlines with his bags. Instead, he sends his stuff by courier. It made a good deal of sense to me at the time. Makes even more sense now.

[WaltA]

I didn't read the whole thread; sorry in advance if this has been mentioned..

Read an article a while back about a fellow who refuses to trust airlines with his bags. Instead, he sends his stuff by courier. It made a good deal of sense to me at the time. Makes even more sense now.

I don't know about that. Purolater has damaged more cameras for me than Air Canada or WestJet have. I'm not sure why people believe that couriers are more careful with your packages than airlines are.

Besides, I think the concerns voiced in this thread are about security limitations around carry-on baggage. Not about whether you trust airlines or not.

[ssim]

All one has to do is to watch that the packages travel at in the sorting centers of theirs. Their handling is anything but tlc. I have shipped my gear ahead of me many times but always used the airlines directly to do so.

Besides, I think the concerns voiced in this thread are about security limitations around carry-on baggage. Not about whether you trust airlines or not.
I agree on that note. Fancy that you and me agreeing on something:D

[WaltA]

Sheldon, I think part of the problem (and it shows thru in this thread) is that there are urban myths, rumours and outright misinformation about airlines, airports, security and travel and transportation as a whole. Those of us that have worked in the industry read these things and just chuckle. But others take them as gospel and arrange their lives accordingly.

Granted, its not only this industry where that is the case but because its the one I work in - it irks me when I see people react (or act) on information that I know to be false or misleading. Maybe its the fact that many photographers travel and this causes changes in the travel industry to be a big concern on this forum.

Anyway, we need to be careful where we get our information from and triple check from different sources before believing anything.

[bjoynes]

Went to the airport a couple of weeks ago and the bag fitted in the device they have to see if it can be carried on. Leaving in a couple of days so will update on my outbound journey.

Bryn

[goingsking]

[QUOTE=ssim;9441712]I can guarantee you that if a bag doesn't meet the requirements and you somehow get it to the gate and the agent asks you to check it the fact that it may have a camera in it won't matter. Those people are there to enforce the rules and ensure the safety of all passengers.

I totally agree, you need to meet the requirements. I have a small backpack that I put a small laptop a small camara bag with lenses, accesories etc even a small tripod, and put camara on top of that. It all fits under the seat if necessary (up top mostly) and I never had a problem. It is the only thing I being on the aircraft. After traveling to Australia and taking 10 flights, we have it down to a science. We have backpack suitcases where we can put 5 days of cloths and never fill them up. They always come in at 41-45 lbs and they are easy to either carry or pull around. I bring my backpack and she has a small gym type bag that fits her stuff.

Now with the fees for baggage, I see why people might want to save some money but come on ..............When you see someone bringing 2 huge pieces of luggageon the aircraft and try to stuff them in the overhead, it is just out of control.

[vmaidens@gmail.com]

Looks like things are back to normal as of April 8th. Thank goodness.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/mediaroom/releases-2010-h039e-5897.htm

[WaltA]

Yeah, normal. And I see yesterday that Spirit initiated $45 charges for CARRY-ON bags!!!

[ssim]

Yeah, normal. And I see yesterday that Spirit initiated $45 charges for CARRY-ON bags!!!
The majors have said that they are not following suit.......yet. Given the financials of airlines I can see them doing this. I read an article yesterday that said that the charge for the second bag has far exceeded the estimates. Can't say as I blame them, their is an expectation out there that anyone should be able to fly across the continent for 99.00 and the fixed costs just don't allow for this so they lower the fares but make up for it in other areas.

I have really wonder what the interim regulations really accomplished. If they were that effective you would think they would keep them in place.

[JohnMHayman]

Don't forget to check your insurance. I know I was warned when investigating insurance that if the camera equipment ended up in checked baggage the insurance would not cover it. It did not matter if it was in a pelican case or not.

John

[WaltA]

Don't forget to check your insurance. I know I was warned when investigating insurance that if the camera equipment ended up in checked baggage the insurance would not cover it. It did not matter if it was in a pelican case or not.

John

Thats an interesting thought, John. Theres nothing in my policy to give me the impression that its not covered all the time - regardless of where it is. It covers my PC, GPS and other electronics as well so it would be interesting to know if all those are not covered when i check luggage.

Maybe Sheldon has some experiences to share in that regard.

Was it only in checked baggage that its not covered? What about trunk of a taxi? Baggage compartment of a bus?

[suecassidy]

Im originally from Prince Edward Island, but now live in Southern California, so I've been flying in and out of the maritimes for years now. I never had any trouble flying with my gear before 9/11, but now....getting back in to the states is such a pain. I've travelled all over the world, including the middle east, and haven't been hassled like I do coming back into the US. I carried my gear in a rolling camera case, which I loved, but when they started to make me pull my lenses out, take batteries out of everything and search my gear thoroughly every single time....I gave up. I take a digital elph with me now and call it a day. I must look like a bad guy. I know my comments have nothing to do with carry on baggage size, but I get SO annoyed at the very topic of flying with my gear and how difficult they manage to make it.

[Kasrielle]

Well, I'm currently visiting my parents in Nashville, and I just had to laugh when I went through customs/security in Toronto before the last leg of my trip. I had my Airport Antidote as full as full can be - and the poor guy opened it up, opened up every lens, took the body caps off the camera, pulled out every filter, and asked questions on each cable, battery, on and on and on... He was especially interested in my rocket blower - kept squeezing it into his own face... :D

[ssim]

I know what you are talking about Sue, the Canadian system is horrid. It is much more ruthless than anywhere else I have traveled, and that is alot. Maybe with the rules being relaxed somewhat or returning to normal as the case may be it will allow you to be able to bring your gear back.

I have been traveling with gear for years. Each year when I renew my insurance I make sure that my personal gear is covered in my household policy. It is but I also carry an additional rider due to the amount of gear that I have. I worked baggage claims at the airline for a number of years (people can be so so nasty) and very few of them actually realized that their household policy will cover much of what the airlines didn't.

Check with the airline's website that you are traveling on to see what their liability is limited to. For example, for travel within Canada Air Canada will pay a maximum of 1500.00 while Westjet cheaps out at 250.00. Transborder and international travel has different liability which is normally based on the weight of the bag. Airlines will sometimes pay above their liability but are not obligated to do so. You can declare a higher value on your baggage and pay an additional charge. You are way better off to add a rider to your household policy. What the airlines charge for baggage insurance is expensive.

[WaltA]

Sheldon, what about John's post that his insurance doesn't cover camera equipment if its in checked baggage. I've never heard of that before.

[yogestee]

Well, I'm currently visiting my parents in Nashville, and I just had to laugh when I went through customs/security in Toronto before the last leg of my trip. I had my Airport Antidote as full as full can be - and the poor guy opened it up, opened up every lens, took the body caps off the camera, pulled out every filter, and asked questions on each cable, battery, on and on and on... He was especially interested in my rocket blower - kept squeezing it into his own face... :D


The word "Anthrax" comes to mind;)

[ssim]

Sheldon, what about John's post that his insurance doesn't cover camera equipment if its in checked baggage. I've never heard of that before.
I thought I had covered that but just for greater certainty I have never heard of this and certainly through my years of doing baggage claims we had always covered those sorts of things. However, carrying plenty of high cost camera gear in those days, some 15-18 years ago, was not as common place as it is today. I actually called my insurance broker this morning and checked on my home policy and they would cover the portions not covered by the airline should it get lost or stolen.

Every airline has their own intricacies in their tariffs. I suggest that people make sure that they carry insurance riders on their home policy if they have gear in value of more than what their normal policy would be. I am sure that if you asked the normal airline employee if this kind of item was covered they wouldn't have a clue. You would have to contact the department that manages their rules, regs and tariffs that they supply to the governments. Good luck on finding them if you are just John Q Public.

There are a many people that blog about this information and there is some misinformation in some of these. What applies to one airline will not fit for the next one. If you are really worried about this the best practice will be to contact the airline(s) in question and your own insurance company. Look at the disparity in Canada between the maximum liabilities between Air Canada and Westjet. One certainly doesn't want to get caught not knowing these sorts of things.