Airline Guides for Travelling with your Bike

by Sarah D January 20, 2024

Do all airlines accept bikes, and what do I need to know? Did you know that for some airlines, you need to contact them months in advance to let them know you’re bringing your bike and may need to disclose the weight and size of the bike bag or box?

It’s not difficult to travel with your bike by plane, but it’s worth reading your airline’s rules regarding the transport of your bike. We’ve pulled a list together of 8 popular airlines and their regulations for travelling with a bicycle:

Please note: the following airline information is all subject to change. We advise that you check with the airline you’re travelling with before booking.

You can only transport bikes and folding bikes in the hold with prior approval from our customer service department. Please submit your request at least 48 hours before your flight's departure
Can transport an electric bike, as long as the battery has been removed (Lithium batteries over 160 Wh are strictly forbidden on board the aircraft)
At the airport, you must pay an additional fee that varies based on geographical zones
May be charged extra fees if the bag/box exceeds 23kg

Call at least 72 hours before you fly as we need to know how big your bike container is and, if possible, how much it weighs
Non-motorised pedal bicycles only
Size limit of up to 190 x 95 x 65cm (75 x 37.5 x 25.5in)

The handlebars must be flush with the frame.
Pedals must be removed or flush against the frame
Bicycles with hydraulic suspensions or brake systems will be accepted
Electric bicycles are not permitted for travel
A non-refundable fee will be charged
A bicycle can be added at the time of making your booking or once a flight has been booked

If you intend to take a bicycle as checked luggage, please contact Emirates at least 24 hours in advance. Special packaging rules may apply.

You can bring your bicycle with you at a fee, which is calculated based on your travel route
Make sure to reserve for the transport as early as possible, but no later than 48 hours before departure. The sooner you do this, the higher the chance that there’s enough space in the aircraft for your bike

Max weight 30kg
Electric bicycles cannot be transported by plane
A bicycle can be added at the time of making your booking or once a flight has been booked

If you’re taking sports equipment with you, you’ll need to call TUI at least 2 months before you travel on 0203 451 2695 to pre-book it onto your flight. If you don’t pre-book, they may refuse to carry your equipment when you get to the airport

You can bring a bicycle as part of your baggage allowance - as long as it doesn’t weigh more than 23kg.
If you're taking it as your checked-in baggage, but it weighs more than 23kg (but less than 32kg) there'll be an overweight baggage charge.
Non-motorised bikes only