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flying with airguns
Posted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 10:07 pm
by lucky
does anyone know if the idiots at the air ports will let scuba tanks on to checked bagage i plan on attending next years nationals but not if i cant take my cylinders on plane.i think a lot of ap shooters wont attend becouse of this nonsence.its like taking firearm and no ammo .
Posted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 10:38 pm
by sparky
Plan on them being able to verify that your cylinders are empty. Have a screw on gauge or something that will show them they aren't pressurized. At the Nationals, you can always refill with air once you get to the range...just be sure to bring any fill adapters you might need.
Posted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 10:14 am
by Pat McCoy
Re: flying with airguns
Posted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 10:51 am
by David Levene
lucky wrote:does anyone know if the idiots at the air ports will let scuba tanks on to checked bagage
You might like to look at this
Federal Aviation Administration page.
The answer to your question seems to be that they won't (or shouldn't)
This attitude will not carry you very far
Posted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 11:21 am
by Bill177
"idiots?"
With that attitude, I'd rather not be in line behind you at the airport. It could be a long - very long - wait. Or, perhaps only a very brief wait - as you are escorted from the line.
Posted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 11:23 am
by jrmcdaniel
Yes, but only if the valve is removed so that the tank can be inspected. This is the same rule that causes problems with airguns and their tanks and there is no exclusion for size or purpose of the tank which is what is desired.
For airguns, the problem seems to be primarily with extra loose tanks -- guns which seem to have an integral tank seem to get through inspections most of the time (for field target shooters, anyway).
Most meets I go to (Field Target and 10M pistol) there is someone with tanks or they provide a resource for renting a tank. Since you would have to get the tank refilled when you get to the meet (and after returning), renting a tank from a dive shop or paintball shop might be a better option.
Best,
Joe
Posted: Sun Oct 23, 2005 1:04 pm
by BadMOJO
First, donload the TSA powerpoint presentation from the USA Shooting website. Second, print and familiarize yourself with the TSA regulations. You may be asked to remove the valve from your scuba tank for visual inspection. The local scuba shop in the other end can re-seat it when they fill the tank for you. Most of us do not travel to matches with our scuba tanks because most matches provide air. (don't forget to bring your adapter)
As far as the actual compressed air cylinders, the TSA has been made aware of the problems and has directed the domestic agents that the valves do not have to be removed. You will have to demonstrate that the cylinders are empty.
Coach Heart at MIT has the latest information from TSA. He is a good resource for you. Also, do not hesitate to contact USA Shooting. Good luck.