Can You Bring A Tennis Racket On A Plane?

Traveling with a tennis racket is quite hectic for tennis players. Have you ever wondered if you can bring a tennis racket on the plane? Then the answer is yes. According to the rules of TSA, passengers can bring a tennis racket with them onboard. Adding to it further, they can also get a tennis racket as carry-on luggage inside the cabin. So depending on the choice of the passenger, they can either bring their tennis racket as a piece of carry-on luggage or checked baggage.

The tennis racket allowed as carry-on luggage may fit in the overhead bin in some planes. But on the same side, it may not fit in the overhead compartment of the other plane. However, apart from the guidelines of TSA, every airline has the reserved right to modify these rules.

If you have multiple questions running through your head regarding the same problem, this article is worth reading. So let’s discuss what a passenger traveling with a tennis racket can expect.

Rules and Regulations of Different Airlines for Carrying a Tennis Racket

Below is the list of one of the most popular airlines and their rules for carrying a tennis racket in a plane:

American Airlines

If you are traveling in American Airlines then the hand luggage dimension of your tennis racket along with the outer cover should be within 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
While talking about the weight then there is no such restriction for the weight of the racket.
American Airlines usually allows passengers to carry tennis rackets on domestic flights within the US.

Air France

Each passenger is allowed to bring one tennis racket on board, and it must be securely stored in a durable, hard-shell case.
The dimensions of the case should not exceed 62 inches in length, 15 inches in width, and 15 inches in height.
Make sure that the case can be easily accommodated under the seat in front of you during the flight.
The weight of the racket should be within 26 lbs.

British Airways

British Airways allows tennis rackets as both carry-on and checked luggage.
The size of the racket should not be more than 22 x 18 x 10 inches.
Whereas the weight of the racket should not be more than 51 lbs.

Air Canada

Passengers traveling with Air Canada Airlines must remember that the weight of the tennis racket along with its cover should be within 21.5 x 9 x 15.5 inches.
The weight of the racket along with the case should be within 10 lbs so that it can be easily kept in the overhead bin.
If the passenger opts to carry the tennis racket as checked baggage, then they have to pay the extra charges for it

Tips for the passengers who want to carry their tennis racket along with them

Check with the airline for any size or weight restrictions on tennis rackets.
Pack your racket in well-padded, hard-shell case.
Label the case with your contact information.
Bring a spare racket string.
Arrive at the airport early to handle the racket.
If allowed, carry the racket on board as a carry-on item.
If checking the racket as luggage, be prepared to pay the required fee.
Ensure the racket is properly protected in a hard-shell case or well-padded soft-sided case.
Loosen the racket strings to prevent breakage during the flight.
Upon arrival, carefully inspect the racket for any damage.
If damage is observed, promptly file a claim with the airline.
Confirm all details and requirements regarding racket transportation with the airline before your flight.