Recently, many US airlines raised their checked bag fees. But in contrast to the rising regular checked bag fees, United Airlines is waiving fees for surfboards. That can represent significant savings for those that surf while traveling.
Surfboard Fee Waiver
Beginning October 5, 2018, oversized luggage fees of $150 or $200 will no longer be assessed for surfboards. Instead, the standard checked bag fees apply for surfboards, wakeboards, and standup paddleboards. This waiver, however, applies only to itineraries originating and terminating in California. Further, only flights operated by United and United Express qualify for the waiver.
Why California?
The reason for this fee waiver is California recent decision to name surfing their state sport. That in itself is interesting, as the sport of surfing originates in Hawaii. However, I do know that surfing is and surf culture is big in California, so the designation makes sense.
Aside from the fee waiver, United is celebrating this designation by supporting conservation efforts. Specifically, the Airline is donating $50,000 to Sustainable Surf, a California-based environmental non-profit.
Uses
Though the fee waiver is a bit restrictive, there’s some flexibility in it. For example, surfers from California may enjoy the fee waiver on flights to Hawaii and Tahiti. Alternatively, visitors from Japan could also pack their own board when visiting the Golden State too. The point is, there are tons of options to consider given United’s extensive route network into and out of California.
United Airlines is Waiving Fees for Surfboards, Final Thoughts
Me? I don’t surf. I don’t even know how to. Unbelievable, right? Doesn’t everyone in Hawaii surf? Nope. But for those of you that travel with your surfboard, would this waiver get you to fly United? Interestingly, Hawaiian Airlines doesn’t offer a waiver. Instead, they charge $100 for flights between the Continental US and Hawaii and $35 for flight wholly within the state.
In fact, the only other US airline that has a similar policy is probably Alaska Air. After all, Alaska lets you check a case of wine free of charge when departing certain airports along the West Coast. These airports include basically any airport they service in California, Oregon, and Washington near wine growing regions, such as Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, etc.