What typically is the baggage allowance per person on a Cesna 206? I assume this would be in addition to firearms. Any suggestions on using charters? This flight will be from Vic Falls to Chirisa in mid September.

Since nobody else has answered, I'll chime in:

A charter operator flying hunters in and out of hunting camps every working day should be ready and able to accommodate the amount of gear a hunter will typically bring over on the big bird, i.e. something like a rifle case, 50 lb of duffel, a carry-on or two, and an American-sized hunter, per person chartered.

If you have some extraordinary need, like hauling a pallet of Jack Daniel's into camp, it would be advisable to discuss it with the charter service in advance.

The only exception I've ever encountered was a float plane fly-in to a caribou camp, where we were limited to 75 lbs TOTAL, including gun, gun case, duffel, sleeping bag, carry-on, and everything.

LRH270,
Thanks for the info. I am one of the wierd ones that packs really light, but just wanted to make sure of weight. I was surprised at the lack of info from fellow AR members as it would seem many have flown charters enough to provide some insight. Thanks for taking the time.

When my group (4 people) flew to Omay north from Harare, we upgraded to the larger 7 seater plane. We each had a carry on, a large duffel and 3 rifle carring case. The pilot was not very happy stating the the plane could not handle the 4 big rifle cases. We ended up folding down a few seats and stacked the cases. It was not very safe, but we got to camp. I ended up selling my the 3 rifle case and bought the 2 rifle case which appears considerably smaller. I took way too much the first time. On my next trip I will pack alot lighter. Carlos

The big rifle cases are a real problem, what we do is either give all our clients soft rifle cases when they arrive and return the tuff packs when they depart.

LRH 270 - is right but then again it all depends on the amount of luggage, if the 206 is carrying all its passengers then you will be luck with all of it, space is the big problem, we normally use a 6 seater for max 4 pax = it means more luggage.

The flight from Vic Falls to Chirisa is not a long haul, weight should not be a problem.

Aubrey, Thanks for the info. I think it will be more than likely 3 pax and pilot in the 206.
We should be fine then as we will have below what has been mentioned. Thanks for takign the time and nice website!

Robncolorado

Thanks for the compliment on the website, it is still far from finished but we will get there in due time.

If there is three people plus the pilot I would say 60 kg max, you could push it but the pilots face will become longer and longer.... lol

Good luck, shout if you need any help

Aubrey,

I think I usually run about 25 to 30 kg's for my gear and 2 guns, so i should be fine. Thanks for the info.