[Elecraft] Flying with a rig

[Scott Monks]

Hi all;
    Hope I am answering this in the correct manner because it is my first post.




>________________________________
>Message: 4
>Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:26:04 -0500
>From: Mike <nf4l at nf4l.com>
>Subject: [Elecraft] Flying with a rig
>
>What's your experience/advice about a domestic flight in the TSA era with a K3 in 
>carry-on buggage?
>There are probably as many stories about this as there are people carrying radios, but here is mine!

First, you want to make it as easy as possible for you, which means it must be easy for them.  Some are very "nervous" and others have more experience seeing electronic equipment.  One almost didn't let me pass carrying my cw paddles because of the heavy iron base!--he said that ham radio doesn't exist any more!  To that end, just as with computers, ALWAYS take it out and put it in a tub.  Same with powersupplies, etc.  That way you will almost always get through without them pulling you aside and causing more delay.  You might want to put a copy of your license with the radio, as some mentioned, but I have never been asked for mine.

Second, put the paddles, coils (from portable antenna, etc.), and so forth in another tub, and, if you use a hard case, send it through open with the cables, etc., inside.  I have been using a soft-sided sort of fat briefcase with foldover top that covers the zipper that is just deep enough to fit the K3 and wide enough to let me put the paddles, Buddipole coils, cables, etc., in the bag.  I haven't found a hard case that is small enough that will let me get by with carrying it on with the smaller (3-seat wide) planes that many airlines are now using to cut back costs.

Third, whatever you do, I strongly advise against putting any gear in your checked luggage unless you can lose it without causing problems.  I have had many suitcases opened, some lost, and undoubtedly stolen, and putting a label on it saying "electronic equipment inside" is asking for trouble.  It doesn't matter what kind of lock you put on, someone can open it!  This is why I use the smallest carryon possible so that it won't get sent below as they sometimes do when you end up in one of the smallest planes.

Even thought it WILL take you a little longer, having everything open means that you usually will not get delayed further while they send you to one side to go through everything item by item.  I have not even had trouble on international flights leaving or returning to the U.S., although this could happen at any time (fingers crossed!).  If I start carrying a power supply this might cause me to change plans--or get my wife to carry that! 


Good luck and just plan to get there a little early to have time for the packing and unpacking.

73, Scott AA0AA