Two of my nephews were denied acceptance of their bow cases by Emirates in Houston today. Seems the travel agent did not get advance clearance for them - firearms were cleared. The counter clerk said it was the travel agents fault as this has always been the policy.

HOWEVER, there is no mention of archery equipment under the baggage rules, including sporting equipment, on the Emirates web site. Too late for my nephews, but if you intend to transport archery equipment on Emirates, be advised that advanced clearance is apparently required.

Allah only knows what damage a bow and arrow could do down in the luggage compartment of a Boeing 777-300?

another reason i would walk before getting on that airline again. fly anyone but emi/rats!!!!

Did they in your canteen cup?

Aside from following their rules, everyone I know who has flown them, including outfitters and PHs, has only rave reviews about their food, service comfort and flights. Based upon those reviews I am giving them a try next Thursday.

I am not impressed with Delta and SSA has gone to sheet and I won't fly through europe with firearms ever again. Doesn't leave many options.

yes we need more options

i am taking Etihad Airways through Abu Dahbi in Oct. they serve Chicago, NY, and Washington through to Joburg. using AA ff miles to fly first class.if you check their website, sounds REALLY nice!! we will see....

Hey LionHunter,
Im leaving Aug 17th from Houston on Emirates (Dubai to Joburg, Joberg to Beria, Moz)My travel agent has supposedly cleared my guns with Emirates (sent her all the info months ago) Anything I need to know as I have not travelled with Emirates before. Previous trips have all been with SAA. Did you have to claim guns and luggage in Dubai or did they stay with Emirates on to Joburg?

I leave tomorrow from SFO. My hunting partner departed last week. Traditionally, Emirates does not confirm firearm clearance until a week prior to departure - go figure? He advised me to have the following in hand at Emirates check-in:

1. Emirates firearms clearance letter or email copy from your travel agent.
2. 4457
3. Safari invite letter from your outfitter.

He departed from Houston also and said that ICE came and checked his firearms before he even got to TSA - who checked them again and didn't care that they had already been checked by an agency of the US government - your tax dollars at work in a post 9-11 world!

So be prepared, arrive early, have your papers in order and hold your temper.

Good luck; Mozambique is a great safari destination.

Also, Emirates will hold ALL luggage for your onward flight. Pack what you need during the layover in your carry-on.