Some research a friend did (who flies for Continental). I’ve never been charged to go to NZ (via Air NZ/United), but one trip the guy did try to charge me.
Re IM Austria: A couple of friends have done it and they had a good time. Good organization, cool swimming in the canal. Not as good as IM NZ (which they’ve both done multiple times.)
clm
Here is a rundown of 7 airlines:
Note: All airlines (except Qantas domestic 54") consider the max bag size as 62 linear inches (length+width+height) and 70lbs. Anything larger than this is considered excess baggage and subject to additional fees. For all airlines 2 checked bags is max anything additional subject to additional fees. Fees vary depending on Domestic or Int’l and are sometimes negotiable (right now, all carriers are trying to make any dollar they can, so be prepared to pay). All airlines require bike to be properly packed (handlebars turned sideways, pedals removed, etc.) in a proper container. All carriers have boxes for purchase.
Continental Airlines:
Domestic: $80 one way
Int’l : $80 one way
if in addition to 2 checked bags, add $90 each way
American Airlines:
Domestic: FREE if meets standard baggage limits
Int’l : bikes considered excess baggage, rates vary
if in addition to 2 checked bags, additional fees apply
Delta Airlines:
Domestic: FREE if meets standard baggage limits
if in excess of 62", $80 one way
Int’l : $90 one way
Northwest Airlines:
Domestic: FREE up to 50lbs and 62"
if larger, $25 one way
Int’l : Rates vary per destination as long as 62" not
exceeded if above 62" or 70lbs (44 lbs to Asia traveling Coach), additional excess fees apply
United Airlines:
Domestic: excess baggage fee applies for all bikes in excess of 62", rates vary
Int’l : excess baggage fee applies for all bikes in excess of
62", rates vary
US Airways:
Domestic: $80 one way
Int’l : $80 one way
if in addition to 2 checked bags, add $90 one way
British Airways:
Domestic/Int’l: FREE if meets standard baggage limits if considered excess, rates vary depending on aircraft and destination
Qantas Airlines:
Domestic: FREE if meets standard baggage limits
if considered excess, A$11.00 or NZ$15.00
Int’l : Rates vary per destination as long as 62" not
exceeded
