Are you planning a ski tour to Norway or a freeride trip to Japan and wondering how to get your avalanche backpack safely to your destination?

This detailed Exped Tribe Guide tells you everything you need to know about transporting your avalanche airbag in an aircraft.

Basics about flying with an avalanche backpack

These days, avalanche backpacks are essential safety equipment for ski tours and freeriding off-piste. However, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) categorises the pressure cartridges they contain as ‘dangerous goods’. Nevertheless, transport is possible under certain conditions – if you know and observe important regulations!

The official IATA regulations

The IATA currently permits the transport of avalanche backpacks under the following conditions:

• One avalanche backpack with one cartridge is permitted per person
• The pressurised cartridge must contain class 2.2 gas
• The backpack must be equipped with a pressure release valve
  Unintentional activation must be prevented by the packaging
• The cartridge must not be transported separately from the backpack
• The cartridge must be stowed in the compartment provided, but must not be screwed in.
• The rucksack should ideally be carried as hand luggage

Here you can find the official IATA regulationes for avalanche airbags in the official document.

How to optimally prepare for the flight

1. Early contact with the airline

Contact your airline at least two weeks before your flight. Important:

• Inform about your intention to transport an avalanche backpack
• Ask for written confirmation of the transport authorisation
• Save the email history and print it out for the flight

2. Compile the necessary documents

You should have the following documents printed out with you:

• Extract from the IATA regulations (multilingual if possible), i.e. the table we have linked above
• Technical data sheet of your avalanche backpack from the manufacturer
• Specifications of the pressure cartridge
• The written authorisation from the airline that was previously confirmed to you by telephone

3. Correct packing of the avalanche backpack if you check it in as check-in luggage or take it with you as hand luggage

How to pack your airbag backpack ready for flight:

• Do not screw the cartridge into the system
• Put the protective cap on the cartridge
  Stow the cartridge in the compartment provided
• Enclose all documents in a clearly visible place
• Secure the system against unintentional deployment

Different systems and their special features

Electrical systems

Modern electric avalanche backpacks, such as those from Pieps or Black Diamond, can usually be transported by plane without any problems as they work without a pressurised cartridge. You just have to observe the usual regulations for lithium batteries.

Mechanical systems

These systems work with pressurised cartridges and require special attention:

• ABS systems: Pyrotechnic trigger mechanism, particularly strict requirements
• Mammut systems: Purely mechanical release, somewhat easier handling
  Ortovox/Scott: Own cartridge systems with special requirements

Special regulations for various destinations

USA and Canada

Stricter regulations apply to flights to and within North America:

• Filled cartridges are generally not permitted
• Cartridge must be completely empty
• Valve must be removable for inspection
• Only certain types of cartridges are authorised
• Prior reservation recommended

Alternative solutions

If transport seems too complicated, there are these alternatives:

1. Rent a cartridge on site:

• Many ski resorts offer a hire service
• Often cheaper than transport
• Use refillable cartridge

2. Transport empty:

• Have them filled on site
• Check availability in advance

Practical tips for the flight day

At check-in

• Allow at least 30 minutes extra time
  Register your avalanche backpack directly at check-in
• Have all documents to hand
• Explain the situation calmly and objectively

At the security check

• Proactively point out the avalanche backpack
• Have a document folder ready
• Be prepared to explain and open the system
• Be patient – not every employee is familiar with the subject matter

Common problems and solutions

Problem: Airline refuses transport

Solution approaches:

• Remain calm and refer to IATA regulations
• Get a supervisor involved
• Refer to written pre-authorisation
• Look for an alternative airline

Problem: Insecure employees

How you deal with it:

• Show technical documentation
• Explain the system patiently
• Point out safety features
• Possibly offer manufacturer hotline

Conclusion and important notes

Flying with an avalanche backpack requires good preparation and sometimes strong nerves. However, with the right documents and the correct procedure, the chances are good that you will get your airbag safely to its destination. But remember:

• No airline guarantees transport. With Swiss and Lufthansa, to name just two airlines that often fly to ski tour destinations, travelling is relatively uncomplicated
• Regulations can change at short notice
• Different handling depending on the airport
• Always consider alternatives in case of uncertainty

Well prepared and with these instructions in your luggage, hopefully nothing will stand in the way of your next ski touring adventure!

Do you need more information to plan your next ski tour?

This is where we at Exped Tribe come into play!
Give us a call or send us your requirements via the contact form and we will get in touch with you as soon as possible. We can discuss your wishes and needs immediately. So nothing stands in the way of your ski touring trip!

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