Archery in South Africa

[bowfishoholic]

We are leaving on Saturday for South Africa on Virgin Atlantic. I noticed the archery rules say that the arrows need to be separate from the bow. Has anyone flown overseas with archery equipment on Virgin Atlantic? We can't seem to get ahold of customer service. I don't want to get to the airport and find out that my arrows can't get there. I don't think that they will fit in my luggage.

 

[jpomazi]

I've only flown Qatar and Delta. That sounds ridiculous. I just got back 4 days ago. The last 5 times I always pack my bow in a duffle and pad it with clothes. I have my arrows in a tube in the same duffle along with broad heads and any other accessories. I've never ever been questioned about it.

 

[Sheldor]

My observation of the TSA folks is the inconsistency of following the regulations. One bunch will allow something to be OK and another bunch at another airport will flag it. Example: an elderly lady had her knitting needles confiscated. Guess she looked like a terrorist? Locks are mentioned here but remember, locks are for honest people. Have never traveled with archery or firearms but would be leery of the people behind closed doors.
Edit: it would be to one's advantage to pull up the regulations for the airline and the TSA, print them and have them with you at check-in to avoid the possible red flags by those who don't know the regulations.

 

[BRICKBURN]

Interesting policy! Seems a little overboard.

I carried arrows in a separate arrow case and threw that case in my regular duffel bag.