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When travelling by air, there are 2 main regulations to take into consideration: the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations in Europe and the FAA regulations in the USA. Here are a few suggestions to help get you and your airbag backpack smoothly to your powder destination.
How to Series - A Guide to Your Winter
Travelling with an airbag backpack and cartridges, especially the cartridges, is still not universally accepted by airlines and can require some preparation. Our cartridges are IATA approved and the alpride system is completely mechanical but here are some tips to help you along the way.
3 SIMPLE STEPS
1. DO YOUR HOMEWORK
Call your airline 2 weeks before to check their regulations and inform them that you will be travelling with “Avalanche Rescue Equipment”. Once you have received confirmation, it would be best to print it out and have it whilst travelling. Checking local customs and airport rules would be a good idea so that you’re up to date. Check if you can purchase the cartridges at your destination, if they have them in stock at local dealers make it easy and buy them there.
2. BACKPACK PREPARATION
The first thing to do is unscrew the cartridges and disarm the system. Print 2 copies of the IATA/FAA regulations, cartridge data tables and airline confirmation. Place one copy of each inside the backpack next to the cartridges and carry the others with you. Pack it safely, away from sharp objects that could tear the airbag or puncture the cartridges such as poles, ice axes, ski edges, etc.
3. TRAVEL DAY
It is advised to declare the airbag backpack when checking it in with the sports equipment luggage, remember to keep the airline confirmation with you.
All you have to do now is enjoy the ride.
Take note:
It is advised to travel with one device and one set of cartridges per person.
The IATA and FAA regulations do not oblige airlines to let you travel with the compressed cartridges.
