Airline Surfboard Fees 2026
The complete guide to flying with your surfboard. Compare boardbag fees from 95+ airlines, understand size limits, and find the best way to travel with your board.
Flying with a surfboard can add significant cost to your trip if you don't plan ahead. Fees range from free to over $300 depending on the airline, route, and board size. Understanding each airline's policy before booking can save you hundreds of dollars.
We've compiled policies from over 100 airlines worldwide, including fee structures, size limits, and booking requirements. Whether you're flying to Bali, Costa Rica, or Portugal, this guide helps you understand what to expect.
Note: If a flight ticket is 50-60% off, it's important to know how your boards will add up to that deal depending on the airline. That's why we include boardbag fee information in every Takeoff Surf flight deal we send to subscribers, so you always know the true cost of your surf trip before booking.
Airline Boardbag Policies
Below you'll find the surfboard policies for major airlines. Fees are shown in USD and apply per direction unless noted. Always confirm directly with the airline before booking, as policies can change.
Aegean Airlines(A3)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Items under 70 lbs (32 kg) face no extra charges, but those over 6'6" (198 cm) incur an $87 (€80) fee. Oversized but within weight limit baggage may face charges ranging from 35 EUR to 80 EUR. Items exceeding weight limits require cargo shipping.
Aer Lingus(EI)
Fee: Varies ($42 for non-North America flights)
Boards under 50 lbs (23 kg) and 9' (274 cm) can be included at no cost on North America routes. Business Class passengers pay no surfboard charges. Limited to one board per traveler, with standard overweight fees for anything beyond the allowance. Regional Aer Lingus flights restrict length to 6'5" (196 cm).
Aero Mexico(AM)
Fee: $79 – $173
Pricing changes by season. Low season runs $79 (€73) domestic and $158 (€145) international. High season costs $87 (€80) domestic and $173 (€159) international. Boards cannot exceed 32 kg (70 lbs). Length limits are 204 cm (80″) on narrow-body planes and 294 cm (115″) on wide-body aircraft. One surfboard can substitute for your included checked bag (excluding Basic "Class V" fares and U.S./Canada routes).
Air Asia(AK)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Passengers get one complimentary 15 kg (33 lbs) surfboard under the Free Surfboard Policy. AirAsia requires a Sports Equipment Allowance for surfboards, charged per passenger, per sector, per piece based on selected weight tier. One surfboard (max 277 cm / 109") packed in a recognized surfboard bag counts as one sports equipment item. Fees vary by weight allowance (e.g., 20 kg or 40 kg tiers) and travel period.
Air Baltic(BT)
Fee: $43 – $82
Fees range from €39.99 ($43) to €75 ($82) depending on booking method. Website purchases cost €39.99 ($43), other vendors run up to €44.99 ($49) online or €45 ($49) through agencies. Airport purchases incur €75 ($82). Fees apply per direction. Keep bags under 50 lbs (23 kg) to avoid extra charges.
Air Canada(AC)
Fee: $100 – $120
A $100 (€92)-$120 (€110) CA/US handling charge applies to surfboards. This fee is assessed per leg on both single and return journeys. Dimensions cannot exceed 292 cm (115 in) length and 60 cm (24 in) width. Space is limited, so contact the airline in advance to secure your spot.
Air Emirates(EK)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Emirates accepts sporting equipment as checked baggage within your standard allowance. Two pieces are allowed. Economy maximum dimensions (length + width + height) cannot exceed 118 inches (300 cm). Economy Class maximum baggage weight is 50 lbs (23 kg)/23 kg (51 lbs).
Air Europa(UX)
Fee: Varies / $77 – $186
One surfboard per passenger. Fees by destination: $77 (€71) for mainland Spain and Balearic Islands, $103 (€95) for Canary Islands, Europe, and Africa, $155 (€143) for Miami, Santo Domingo, New York, and Punta Cana, and $186 (€171) for other international routes.
Air France(AF)
Fee: $71-$136
Charged per direction. Boards smaller than 107 cm (3'6″) weighing under 23 kg (51 lbs) can count toward your ticket's luggage allowance (Light fares excluded). For boards between 107 cm (42") and 300 cm (118"), you must obtain approval at least 48 hours ahead of your flight.
Air India(AI)
Fee: $45 / $47
Surfboards count as sporting gear under your complimentary baggage allocation, though a handling charge is required. Domestic routes cost INR 2375, international flights (except Canada) are USD 45, and Canada routes run CAD 63.5 (tax included). Size limits are 300 cm (118″) with a 32 kg (70 lb) weight cap. Going over your allowance triggers standard overage fees.
Air New Zealand(NZ)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
No charge if under 2m (78'7") in length and under 23kg (50 pounds). Multiple boards can share a bag within stated weight and dimension limits. Sporting items exceeding 6.5 feet but under 8.2 feet may still be accepted with oversized item charges. Maximum weight is 70 pounds per item.
Air Tahiti(VT)
Fee: Included in allowance (size limits apply)
Surfboards included in baggage allowance if within limits. Max 1.8m accepted normally. Boards 1.8-2m must ship as cargo. Over 2m not accepted due to small aircraft holds. Excess weight charged per kg at check-in (CFP Francs). Contact Air Tahiti Cargo for oversized items.
Air Tahiti Nui(TN)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
One free sports equipment item is permitted on operated flights in addition to your normal free checked baggage. Allowance depends on cabin class, frequent flyer status, weight, and luggage dimensions.
Air Transat(TS)
Fee: $100 – $115
Charged per direction. One surfboard per passenger, must be under 9'7" (292 cm) and 70 lbs (32 kg). Prepay option available up to 72 hours before flight for $100 (€92). Airport payment costs $115 (€106).
AirAsia Indonesia(QZ)
Fee: $12+ (weight-based)
One of the most surfboard-friendly airlines in Indonesia. Surfboards are charged by weight, starting at approximately $12 (Rp 182,000) for 15 kg. Book baggage online when reserving your ticket for significant savings. Maximum dimensions are 277 cm (9'1") length and 32 kg (71 lbs) weight.
Alaska Airlines(AS)
Fee: $35+
Boards weighing under 50 lbs (23 kg) and measuring less than 115" (292 cm) incur the standard $30 (€28) checked bag fee. Exceed either limit and the charge jumps to $100 (€92).
American Airlines(AA)
Fee: $35 / Varies
Standard checked bag fees apply up to 50 lbs (23 kg), with the first bag at $45 ($35 online) and second at $50 ($45 online) for travel within/between the U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands. Maximum linear size (length + width + height) is 115 in / 292 cm (115"), suitable for most shortboards but potentially restrictive for longboards. Madrid (MAD) departures limit any checked item side to 43 in / 110 cm (43").
Asiana Airlines(OZ)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Excess baggage or weight fees may apply if your surfboard bag exceeds the free baggage allowance. Equipment must be securely packed in a surfboard bag for safe transport.
Avianca(AV)
Fee: $40 – $187
Each passenger may check a single bag containing up to three boards. Weight cannot exceed 32 kg (70 lbs), linear dimensions max out at 230 cm (90 in), though bags can stretch to 3.7 m (12 ft) in length. Pricing ranges from around $40 (€37) on certain South American routes to $125 (€115)-$187 (€172) for North America and Europe, depending on route and season. Booking online saves money compared to airport rates.
Azores Airlines(S4)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Surfboards up to 200 × 60 × 50 cm (20") are accepted but must be pre-booked and confirmed before travel. Boards can travel free within your fare's checked baggage allowance. Exceeding your allowance triggers fees: €35 ($38) per item on domestic routes, €40 ($43) on Europe/Africa routes, and 95 USD / 125 CAD (or €75) per item on USA/Canada routes.
Bahamas Air(UP)
Fee: $35 – $175
Treated as checked luggage (first bag costs $35). One surfboard per case, up to 6 feet in length. International checked bag fees: $35 (€32) first bag, $55 (€51) second, $95 (€87) third, $125 (€115) fourth and beyond. Each bag must stay under 50 lbs (23 kg) and 62 inches total dimensions to avoid extras. Bags between 50-70 lbs (32 kg) add $50 (€46). Bags over 62 inches add $150 (€138). Bags exceeding both 50 lbs (23 kg) and 62 inches add $175 (€161) plus applicable checked bag fee.
Batik Air(ID)
Fee: $13 per board per flight
Part of the Lion Air Group. Charges a flat fee of approximately $13 (Rp 200,000) per surfboard per flight segment. Maximum dimensions are 230 cm (7'6") length and 23 kg (51 lbs) weight per surfboard.
Binter Canarias(NT)
Fee: $82 if oversized
Sports equipment gets +5kg extra allowance. If under 23kg and 160cm, included in allowance. Over 23kg or over 160cm in any dimension costs €75. Space reservation required before check-in. Windsurf equipment only on Embraer fleet.
British Airways(BA)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Boards up to 240 cm (94") in length and 75 cm (30") in width can travel as part of your checked baggage allowance if under 23 kg (51 lbs) and packed in a protective bag (not accepted on London City routes). Exceeding your free baggage allowance triggers standard excess baggage fees. Larger boards must ship as cargo.
Brussels Airlines(SN)
Fee: $95 – $375
Surfboards are transported as sports equipment with special rates. Short boards (max 200 cm length) cost $95 (€87) within Europe and $235 (€216) to U.S./Canada East Coast. Long boards (max 315 cm length) cost $155 (€143) within Europe and $375 (€345) to U.S./Canada East Coast. One board per passenger.
Cathay Pacific(CX)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Surfboards can be included in your checked baggage allowance if total dimensions (length + width + height) do not exceed 203 cm (80 in). Standard weight limits apply based on your ticketed baggage allowance. Overweight charges may apply if you exceed your allowance.
Cayman Airways(KX)
Fee: $95
Charged per board. No specific size or weight limits are published.
CEBU Pacific Air(5J)
Fee: Varies
A pre-purchased "CEB Surfboard add-on" is required, with only one board allowed per passenger per flight. Maximum weight is 20 kg (44 lbs) including the case. Exact pricing varies by itinerary.
China Air(CI)
Fee: Varies ($150 per flight)
Policy details are unclear. Contacting the airline beforehand is recommended. Reports suggest $150 (€138) per bag or per board depending on the route.
China Southern(CZ)
Fee: Varies by route ($50-$150)
Surfboards accepted as checked baggage on most routes. Fees vary by route and cabin class. Contact airline directly for specific route pricing.
Citilink(QG)
Fee: $7+ (weight-based)
Surfboards are charged by weight, starting at approximately $7 (Rp 111,000) for 0-5 kg. Aircraft restrictions apply: Airbus A320 allows up to 10 surfboards with max length 227 cm (7'5"), while ATR 72-600 allows only 2 surfboards with max length 170 cm (5'7"). Additional charges apply for bags exceeding 30 kg.
Condor(DE)
Fee: $54 – $147
Surfboard transport fees vary by route zone. Pre-booked rates range from €49.99 ($54) to €99.99 ($109), while airport rates run €120 ($130) to €135 ($147). Boards must stay under 9'8" (295 cm) and 66 lbs (30 kg), with a maximum of two per passenger.
Copa Airlines(CM)
Fee: $50 -$150
Passengers can bring up to three boards in one case. Domestic flights cost $50 (€46), while international routes run $100 (€92) per direction. ConnectMiles Prefer and Star Alliance Gold members pay $150 (€138) when exceeding their complimentary bag count. Weight limit is 100 pounds with a 115 linear inch length cap. Reserve your board when buying your ticket or phone at least 48 hours before departure.
Corsair(SS)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Free within standard checked baggage allowance. Boards must weigh less than 50 lbs (23 kg) and measure under 9'8" (295 cm) in length to qualify.
Croatia Airlines(OU)
Fee: $65 + 25% VAT – $130
Domestic Croatian flights cost EUR 60 plus 25% VAT, while European routes run EUR 120. Boards up to 11'5" (348 cm) are accepted. Notify the airline when booking due to limited cargo space.
Delta Air Lines(DL)
Fee: $30 if first checked bag, $40 if second
Pack up to 2 boards per bag. Weight must stay below 50 lbs (23 kg) to avoid extra charges. Bags exceeding 115 linear inches are prohibited. The Honolulu-Maui route costs just $20 (€18).
EasyJet(U2)
Fee: $60
Boards up to 70 lbs (32 kg) cost £50 ($64) when booked online, or £60 ($76) at the airport. This rate applies per item, per flight. Anything heavier than 70 lbs (32 kg) incurs extra fees.
Ethiopian Airlines(ET)
Fee: $200
A flat $200 (€184) fee covers surfboard transport. Boards cannot exceed 3m (300 cm) in length or 50 lbs (23 kg) in weight.
Etihad Airways(EY)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Free if your surfboards are under 9'8" (295 cm) long and 70 lbs (32 kg). The airline does not assume responsibility for any damages. Proper packing is recommended for protection during travel.
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Fee: $50 – Varies
Boards under 50 lbs (23 kg) start at $50 (fees may vary by location).
Eva Air(BR)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Free if your surfboard is under 50 lbs (23 kg) and 109 linear inches. Up to two boards per bag are allowed. Inform Eva Air when purchasing your ticket. Oversized boards may be accepted based on cargo hold availability, subject to excess baggage fees.
Fiji Airways(FJ)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Fees vary by region and destination. Boards under 2 m (78.7") and up to 30 kg (66 lbs) count as a standard checked bag. Boards over 30 kg (66 lbs) incur excess baggage charges. Boards longer than 2 m (6'7") incur a handling fee (specific amount not published).
Finnair(AY)
Fee: Varies ($156-$313)
Boards measuring up to 210 cm (83") and weighing no more than 23 kg (51 lbs) qualify as one special baggage item. Pricing matches standard extra luggage rates and varies by destination. Oversized boards cost $156 (€144) per direction within Finland and Europe, rising to $313 (€288) per direction for North America, Asia, and Middle East routes.
French Bee(BF)
Fee: $130 – $250
Charged per direction. Boards up to 32 kg (71 lbs) cost $130 (€120) when purchased online, or $250 (€230) at the airport.
Frontier Airlines(F9)
Fee: Varies
Surfboards can be checked as standard luggage with applicable standard and oversize fees varying by route. Boards cannot exceed 99 lbs (45 kg) or 15 feet in length.
Hawaiian Airlines(HA)
Fee: $30 – $200
Charged per direction, per bag. Multiple boards can share one bag. Length cap is 125 inches (317 cm) with a standard 50 lbs (23 kg) weight limit. Inter-island Hawaiian routes cost $30 (€28) per direction. North America to Hawaii runs $40 (€37) per direction. USA-Australia/New Zealand flights include boards free as your first checked item (up to 70 lbs / 32 kg). Overweight fees kick in above 50 lbs (23 kg). Boards exceeding 100 lbs (45 kg) or 125 inches cannot be accepted.
Iberia Express(I2)
Fee: $65-$185 (varies by route)
Follows Iberia Group policy. Sports equipment fee €60-€170 depending on route distance. Online booking is €25-30 cheaper than airport. Max 23kg included, up to 32kg with excess baggage fee. Surfboards up to 3.5m accepted. Must check in at special baggage desk.
IcelandAir(FI)
Fee: $110 – $210
International flights allow up to 4 surfboards, while domestic and Greenland flights permit 2. Boards must be added as medium odd-sized items and do not count toward your free allowance. USA departures cost $110 (€101)-$210 (€193), European departures run €105 ($114)-€165 ($179), and Canadian departures range C$150 (€138)-C$280 (€258).
IndiGo(6E)
Fee: $24 – $48
Handling fees run ₹2,000 (approx. $22 USD) on domestic routes and ₹3,500 (approx. $38 USD) on international routes when pre-booked. Airport payment for international travel costs ₹4,000 (approx. $44 USD). Charges apply per board, per passenger, per direction, separate from excess baggage fees. Pre-booking online secures the lower rate.
Japan Airlines(JL)
Fee: $200
Two boards are allowed per bag. Contact the airline beforehand. Domestic flights cost $50 (€46). Japan to Asia, Guam, and Oceania runs $100 (€92). Routes between Asia, India, Oceania and Hawaii, North/Central/South America, Europe, Middle East, Africa cost $200 (€184).
Jet Blue(B6)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Price applies per direction. One board per bag. Counts toward your checked baggage allowance. No surfboards on flights to/from Bermuda, Haiti, Peru, Port of Spain, Santo Domingo, and Santiago. Cannot exceed 99 lbs (45 kg).
Jet2.com(LS)
Fee: $44/$38
Surfboards must be pre-booked on Jet2 and can measure up to 300 cm (118") in length. They count toward your standard baggage allowance with standard bag charges applying by route and booking time. Airport surfboard addition costs £45 ($57) per item plus any applicable excess baggage fees. No single item may exceed 32 kg (71 lbs), with excess weight charged at £12 ($15) per kg.
Jetstar(JQ)
Fee: AUD / $16
Charged per direction. Oversized items like surfboards incur AUD / NZD $25 (€23) handling fees if any side exceeds 39 inches. Each passenger can bring up to two oversized items. Bags over 70 lbs (32 kg) must ship as freight. Jetstar Airways, Jetstar Asia, and Jetstar Japan flights cap length at 7'6" (229 cm), while other international Jetstar Airways flights allow up to 9 feet.
KLM Royalty Dutch Airlines(KL)
Fee: Free / Varies
Surfboards can substitute for one piece of your standard baggage allowance. Bags longer than 107 cm (42") require advance reservation. Additional fees apply for travelers from the US, Canada, and Mexico depending on itinerary. Calling at least 48 hours ahead is recommended to secure space.
Korean Air(KE)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Included as checked baggage. Must stay under 32 kg (72 lbs) and within 115" (292 cm) total dimensions (length + width + height) to avoid oversize fees on international flights. Exceeding your bag limit triggers excess fees: overweight bags between 24-32 kg (71 lbs) cost $75 (€69), and a second checked bag on select Americas routes may cost $150 (€138). Boards measuring 203-292 cm (80-115") require prior approval and may incur a $300 (€276) oversize fee.
LATAM Airlines(LA)
Fee: $65 – $150
Surfboards qualify as special baggage and cannot exceed 300 linear cm (length + width + height). One bag may contain up to three boards. Fixed special baggage fees depend on departure and destination. Domestic flights within select South American countries range from US$40 (€37) to R$200 (€184). International routes vary from US$65 (€60) to US$150 (€138) depending on destination. Fees apply per surfboard, per direction.
Lion Air(JT)
Fee: $13-$26 per board per flight
Charges approximately $13 (Rp 200,000) per surfboard per flight segment. Multi-leg trips multiply the fee (e.g., Bali to Padang via Jakarta = 2x fee). Stricter than other Indonesian carriers: maximum length 200 cm (6'7") and 23 kg (51 lbs). Passengers must complete a Special Baggage form before flight. Enforcement can be inconsistent.
LOT Polish Airlines(LO)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Surfboards can travel free if exchanged for your checked baggage allowance (advance request required). Maximum weight is 23 kg (51 lbs) with maximum dimensions of 203 cm (total length + width + height). Exceeding 23 kg (up to 32 kg) triggers overweight charges. Items over 32 kg (71 lbs) must ship as cargo. Space is limited; request at least 24 hours before departure.
Lufthansa(LH)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Included in your baggage allowance depending on service class. Boards up to 315 cm (124") in length and 32 kg (71 lbs) are permitted. Exceeding your free allowance triggers flat sports baggage fees: €70 ($76) within Germany, €80 ($87) within Europe, €100 ($109) to Near/Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia, €200 ($217) on medium-haul intercontinental routes, and €250 ($272) on long-haul intercontinental routes (per direction). Registration is required at least 24 hours before flight.
Malaysia Airlines(MH)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Included in your checked baggage allowance. Maximum length accepted is 2.5 m (250 cm / 98"). Exceeding your weight or baggage allowance triggers excess fees. Bags over 158 cm (62") linear dimensions or over 32 kg (70 lbs) may face oversized surcharges. Items over 204 cm (80") may need cargo shipping.
Maldivian(Q2)
Fee: $40-$160 (varies by route)
Surf bags charged separately from excess baggage. Small bag (≤5" thick): $40-$80. Large bag (6-10" thick): $80-$160. Max 7 feet length due to Dash 8 aircraft hold size. Contact ticketing office ([email protected]) in advance to confirm space. Max 4-5 boards per flight.
NAM Air(IN)
Fee: $7+ (weight-based, varies by route)
Subsidiary of Sriwijaya Airlines with identical surfboard policy. Charged by weight starting at approximately $7 (Rp 111,000) for 0-5 kg. Pricing varies by route. Maximum dimensions are 230 cm x 60 cm (7'6" x 24") and 23 kg (51 lbs) per surfboard.
Pegasus(PC)
Fee: $20 domestic / $71 international
Domestic flights cost 700 TRY (approx. $16 USD), while international flights run €65 ($71). Short boards must be under 145 cm (57"), and long boards can range from 145 cm (57") to 280 cm (110"). Equipment exceeding these limits is not accepted. Contacting Pegasus in advance to add your surfboard is recommended.
Philippine Airlines(PR)
Fee: $150
Surfboards are treated as excess baggage. Boards within 109 inches (277 cm) incur 100% of the excess baggage fee. Longer boards incur 200% of the fee. Additional boards follow the same pricing structure.
Qantas(QF)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Surfboards travel at no extra cost within your standard checked luggage allocation. Boards need to be properly bagged and stay within 32 kg (70 lbs) and 277 cm (109″). QantasLink Dash 8 (Q200/300) flights have a reduced length cap of 240 cm (94"). Anything beyond these limits requires freight shipping, with overweight charges applying if you go over your allowance.
Royal Air Morac(AT)
Fee: Varies – $380
Domestic flights range from 580 MAD to 1150 MAD based on weight and size. Europe and Maghreb routes run €70 (up to 23 kg / 158 cm) to €180 (up to 32 kg / 300 cm). Africa and Middle East routes cost €180 ($196) to €350 ($380) depending on size and weight.
Ryanair(FR)
Fee: $47
Large sports equipment (no specific dimension restrictions listed). Charged per item per one-way flight. Maximum weight is 20 kg (44 lbs).
Scandinavian Airlines(SK)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Free if they fit within your ticket's checked baggage allowance; otherwise, special baggage fees apply. Boards qualify as special baggage if total dimensions (length + width + height) exceed 158 cm (62").
Singapore Air(SQ)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Included in your checked bag allowance. Beyond that, additional baggage costs either $150 (€138) or $225 (€207) depending on destination. One board per person. Items above 32 kg (70 lbs) are not accepted as checked baggage and may need repacking or cargo shipping. Each item cannot exceed 200 cm (79") + 75 cm (30") + 80 cm (31") in dimension.
South African Airlines(SA)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
May be included in your checked bag allowance (one bag for Economy). One board only, must not exceed 6'5" (196 cm) or 50 lbs (23 kg). Larger boards must ship as cargo. Excess weight is charged accordingly.
Southwest(WN)
Fee: $75
Surfboards are accepted as checked luggage. Standard checked bag and overweight fees apply, though oversize fees are waived. Sporting equipment over 100 lbs (45 kg) is not accepted. Keels and fins must be removed and placed in carry-on or checked baggage. Surfboards travel with limited liability release. Hawaii residents with a valid U.S. Postal Hawaii mailing address (no P.O. Boxes) are exempt from standard checked bag fees.
Spirit Airlines(NK)
Fee: Free / $150+
You can pack two boards per bag at $150 (€138) per direction. Overweight and oversized fees are already bundled into that $150 (€138) charge. Spirit reminds travelers to remove or protect surfboard keels.
SriLankan Airlines(UL)
Fee: $250 per set
Surfboards can be included in your free baggage allowance if within weight limits. If exceeding free allowance, charged at $250 per set. Maximum weight 32kg. Windsurfing equipment (board, boom, sail mast) counts as one set.
Sriwijaya Air(SJ)
Fee: $7+ (weight-based, varies by route)
Third-largest airline in Indonesia with Category 1 safety rating. Surfboards charged by weight starting at approximately $7 (Rp 111,000) for 0-5 kg. Pricing varies by route. Maximum dimensions are 230 cm x 60 cm (7'6" x 24") and 23 kg (51 lbs) per surfboard.
Super Air Jet(IU)
Fee: $13 per board per flight
Part of the Lion Air Group. Charges a flat fee of approximately $13 (Rp 200,000) per surfboard per flight segment. Maximum dimensions are 230 cm (7'6") length and 23 kg (51 lbs) weight per surfboard.
SWISS(LX)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
SWISS permits complimentary sports equipment transport within your baggage allowance limits. Exceeding item count or weight per item incurs additional fees. Due to limited storage, advance registration is recommended and can be requested up to 72 hours before departure.
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Get surf flight deals →Thai AirAsia(FD)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
One surfboard up to 15kg is free under the Free Surfboard Policy. Additional boards or overweight boards may incur fees.
Thai Airways International(TG)
Fee: $180
Charged per unit. Domestic Thailand routes cost 1520 THB per unit. International routes run 180 USD (or 6255 THB) per unit. Boards between 159-200 cm (79") count as 1 unit, while boards over 200 cm (79") count as 2 units. Surfboards are only accepted on wide-body aircraft.
Transavia(HV)
Fee: $57
Charged per direction at €52 ($57) per surfboard per flight. Board bags can weigh up to 70 lbs (32 kg) and measure up to 11'8" (356 cm). No additional items like clothes or wetsuits are allowed inside. Pre-departure registration with the airline is required.
Transavia France(TO)
Fee: $57
Charged per direction at €52 ($57) per surfboard per flight. Board bags can weigh up to 70 lbs (32 kg) and measure up to 11'8" (356 cm). No additional items like clothes or wetsuits are allowed inside. Pre-departure registration with the airline is required.
TUI(BY)
Fee: $60/$70
Phone pre-booking is required. Handling fees run approximately £55 ($70)/€55 ($60) per flight. Boards may weigh up to 32 kg (71 lbs) and typically can reach 375 cm (approx. 12'3") in length. Without pre-booking, TUI may refuse to transport your board at the airport.
Turkish Airlines(TK)
Fee: Free
Boards up to 9'6" (292 cm) in length and 24 inches (60 cm) wide are accepted. Domestic Turkey flights cost 500 TRY per direction. International flights incur special baggage fees ranging from €50 ($54) to €220 ($239) per direction depending on route and zone. Advance reservation is required.
United Airlines(UA)
Fee: $30-$150 (Only Check-Bag Fee To/From California)
California routes: counts as one checked luggage piece at $30 (€28). Rest of North America: $150 (€138) per direction between the U.S., Canada, PR, and U.S. Virgin Islands, or $200 (€184) per direction for other destinations. Maximum limits are 99 lbs (45 kg) and 9'5" (287 cm). Note: check the excess baggage embargo list as certain destinations and times of year may not accept boards (Costa Rica excepted).
Vietnam Airlines(VN)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Boards up to 6'2" (203 cm) and 50 lbs (23 kg) are included in your checked baggage allowance at no extra charge. Proper packing is required. Contact the airline for reservations at least 24 hours before departure.
Virgin Atlantic(VS)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Free to bring your surfboard bag within your baggage allowance, but recent major changes affect size restrictions. The allowance only applies if your surfboards do not exceed 23 kg (50 lbs) in weight and 190 cm (about 6'2") in length.
Virgin Australia(VA)
Fee: Free (included in baggage allowance)
Surfboards are included in your checked baggage allowance at no charge, provided they weigh under 50 pounds (23 kg).
Volaris(Y4)
Fee: $170 – $210
Fees vary by travel route. Oversized luggage starts around $170 (€156).
Volotea(V7)
Fee: $65 online / $87 airport
Charged per direction. Special baggage costs €60 ($65) per flight when booked online or via call center (€80 at the airport). Boards can weigh up to 32 kg (70 lbs) and measure up to 2 meters in length. Exceeding 32 kg (71 lbs) incurs €12 ($13) per additional kg. Special baggage can be added during booking or up to 2 hours before departure.
Vueling(VY)
Fee: $49 – $82
Charged per direction with dynamic pricing based on route, demand, and booking timing. Online prices typically run €45 ($49)-€65 ($71) per passenger per direction, while airport prices range €55 ($60)-€75 ($82) per passenger per direction. Boards can weigh up to 32 kg (70 lbs) and measure up to 2.7 meters in length.
WestJet(WS)
Fee: $100 – $118
Surfboards are permitted as checked luggage if they measure under 9'8" (295 cm) in length. Boards over 5 feet trigger oversized fees between $100 (€92) and $118 (€109). A $50 (€46) handling charge applies to all sporting gear.
Wings Air(IW)
Fee: $32-$65 per board per flight
Lion Air subsidiary operating regional routes. Charges approximately $32 (Rp 500,000) per surfboard per flight, though some routes charge up to $65 (Rp 1,000,000). Stricter limits than mainline carriers: maximum 200 cm (6'7") length and 23 kg (51 lbs). Passengers must complete a Special Baggage form. Consider alternatives for multi-board trips.
Wizz Air(W6)
Fee: $50 online / $70 airport
Sports equipment fee is €45 when booked online, €65 at airport. Must book at least 3 hours before departure. Max dimensions 149x119x171cm, max weight 32kg. Limited availability per flight, book early.
Tips for Flying with Your Surfboard
Protect your board with proper packing
The most important thing you can do is invest in a quality board bag. Look for bags with at least 5-10mm of foam padding throughout. Before packing, wrap your board's rails in bubble wrap or pipe insulation from a hardware store. Remove your fins or protect them with cardboard to prevent them from puncturing the bag or damaging your board. Fill any empty space with clothes, towels, or wetsuits for extra cushioning. For expensive boards or multi-leg journeys, consider a hard case instead of a soft bag.
Know your dimensions before you get to the airport
Measure your packed board bag before heading to the airport. Most airlines have both length and weight limits, and exceeding either can result in additional fees or your board being rejected. The standard weight limit is 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg), and length limits typically range from 9' to 12'. Weigh your packed bag at home and take photos of the measurements for reference. Arriving at check-in with your dimensions ready speeds up the process and avoids surprises.
Call the airline 48 hours before your flight
Even if you've researched the policy online, call the airline's customer service 48 hours before departure. Confirm the exact fee for your specific route, as prices can vary between domestic and international flights. Ask them to add a note to your booking indicating you'll be checking sports equipment. Get a reference number for the call. If you have connecting flights, ask how your board will be handled during layovers and whether you need to re-check it.
Book smart and factor in the total cost
When comparing flight prices, always factor in the boardbag fee. A cheap flight with a $200 board fee might cost more than a slightly pricier ticket on a surfer-friendly airline. Some airlines offer discounts for pre-paying board fees online versus paying at the airport. Check if your credit card includes sports equipment coverage in its travel insurance. Avoid tight connections when possible, as oversized items are typically loaded last and unloaded first, which can cause delays.
Consider surfboard shipping for long trips
For extended trips or one-way travel, shipping your board ahead might be more economical than paying airline fees, especially if you have multiple boards. Services like Ship Sticks or Luggage Free specialize in door-to-door surfboard shipping. Compare the total cost including insurance, and factor in the convenience of not wrestling your board through airports. Some surfers ship boards to their destination a week early and fly with just a carry-on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best airlines for surfers?
The most surfer-friendly airlines offer free or low-cost surfboard transport with generous size limits. These carriers serve major surf destinations and understand that boards are essential travel gear, not luxury items.
Top picks:
- Hawaiian Airlines (free, up to 70 lbs)
- Qantas (included in baggage allowance)
- Garuda Indonesia (free up to 23kg)
- Thai AirAsia (free up to 15kg)
- Air New Zealand (included in allowance)
- Fiji Airways (free for one board)
- South African Airways (included in allowance)
- Philippine Airlines ($50-100)
Which airlines allow free surfboards?
Several airlines include surfboards at no extra charge:
- Hawaiian Airlines (one board up to 70 lbs free)
- Qantas (part of standard baggage allowance)
- Garuda Indonesia (free up to 23kg on most routes)
- Thai AirAsia (one board up to 15kg free)
- Air Tahiti Nui (included in allowance)
- Fiji Airways (one board free)
- South African Airways (included in checked baggage)
- Rex Airlines Australia (regional carrier)
Note that weight and size limits still apply, and policies can vary by route or fare class.
What's the best airline for flying with surfboards in Indonesia?
For Indonesia, it depends on your priorities. Garuda Indonesia offers free surfboard transport (up to 23kg) with better service and reliability, but tickets cost more. Budget carriers like Citilink, AirAsia, and Lion Air charge $15-40 for boards but have much cheaper base fares.
For example, an AirAsia ticket at $70 plus $15 board fee ($85 total) often beats a $140 Garuda ticket, even with free boards.
Choose Garuda if:
- You're carrying multiple boards or heavy gear (23kg+)
- You value comfort and service
- The total cost is competitive for your route
Go budget (Citilink, AirAsia, Lion Air) if:
- You're traveling light with one board
- Prioritizing savings over comfort
- Your board fits within their weight/length limits
What's the best airline for flying with surfboards in Europe?
For European surf trips (Portugal, Spain, France, Canary Islands), your best options are:
- TAP Portugal ($75-150, good for Lisbon/Porto connections)
- Vueling ($70-100, covers Spain well)
- Ryanair ($55-75 online, serves many surf spots)
- Iberia/Iberia Express ($65-185 depending on route)
- Wizz Air (€45 online / €65 at airport)
- Binter Canarias (+5kg free allowance for sports equipment)
Budget tip: Ryanair and easyJet are cheapest if you book the board fee online in advance (airport fees are much higher).
What's the best airline for flying with surfboards in the US?
For US surf travel:
- Hawaiian Airlines: Free surfboard transport to Hawaii
- Alaska Airlines: $100 each way, serves West Coast well
- Southwest: $35-75 depending on fare, no change fees
- JetBlue: $150 for oversized items
- United/American/Delta: $150-200 each way
Budget tip: Southwest's free checked bags policy and flexible booking make it a solid choice for domestic surf trips, though you'll still pay the oversized fee.
How do I properly protect my surfboard while flying?
Start with a quality padded board bag (5-10mm foam minimum). Wrap rails in bubble wrap or pipe insulation, remove or protect fins with cardboard or styrofoam, and fill empty space with clothes or wetsuits. For expensive boards, consider a hard case.
Beyond packing:
- Review each airline's damage policy before booking
- Check if your travel insurance covers sports equipment
- See if your credit card provides baggage protection
Most importantly, inspect your board immediately at baggage claim before leaving the airport. Airlines typically reject damage claims if you leave without reporting, so document any damage with photos and file a claim on the spot.
What should I do if my board gets damaged by the airline?
Inspect your board at the baggage carousel before leaving the airport. If damaged, immediately go to the airline's baggage service desk and file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).
Steps to take:
- Take photos of all damage
- Keep your boarding pass and baggage tags
- Get a copy of the report
Most airlines require claims within 7 days for domestic flights and 21 days for international. Compensation varies: some airlines cap liability at $3,500 (based on weight), others offer less.
Having photos of your board before the trip helps prove pre-existing condition. If the airline denies your claim, dispute through your credit card or travel insurance. Consider dedicated surfboard insurance for expensive boards.
Should I bring my board or rent locally?
Both have merit.
Bringing your board: Riding familiar equipment, but adds fees ($50-200+ each way), airport hassle, and damage risk.
Renting locally: Lighter travel, no fees, and flexibility to try different boards. But quality varies by location and popular boards get rented multiple times.
Established surf destinations (Bali, Portugal, Costa Rica, Hawaii) have excellent rental shops with quality boards. Remote spots may have limited or worn-out options.
Consider bringing your board if:
- It's custom-shaped for you
- You're competing
- Visiting somewhere with limited rentals
Rent if:
- You're exploring multiple spots
- Traveling light matters
- Your board is expensive and you'd rather not risk airline damage
How do I fly with a longboard?
Longboards (9'+) are trickier due to size limits. Most airlines accept boards up to 9'6" or 10' without issue. Beyond that, check specific policies: some airlines (Hawaiian, Qantas) accept up to 11'6", while others cap at 9'. Fees may increase for boards over 9'.
Regional carriers with smaller aircraft (like Air Tahiti's domestic flights) may not accept boards over 6-7 feet at all.
Tips:
- Call the airline 48+ hours ahead to confirm acceptance
- Always book the board fee in advance
- Some surfers ship longboards via freight for multi-week trips
How does Takeoff Surf help with boardbag fees?
Every flight deal we send includes the airline's boardbag fee, so you see the true cost upfront. If a flight ticket is 50-60% off, knowing whether boards cost $50 or $200 extra helps you make smart decisions.
Our deals show:
- The discounted fare
- The board fee
- Size/weight limits
We track fees across 145+ airlines and update them regularly. Sign up at takeoffsurf.com to get surf trip deals with all costs included, no surprises at check-in.
Last updated: September 2026
Fees shown are estimates and may vary by route, class, and booking method. Always confirm with the airline before booking. If you spot an error or outdated information, let us know.