Special Items

Whether you’re a musician, athlete, or transporting valuable items, Air Niugini understands the importance of handling special items with care. This guide outlines how to safely transport items like sports gear, musical instruments, and unique valuables. By following these tips, you can ensure your items arrive securely at your destination.

1. Traveling with Sports Equipment

Air Niugini accommodates a wide range of sports gear. Here’s how to prepare your equipment for transit:

  • Bicycles: Pack your bicycle in a sturdy bike box or case. Remove pedals, slightly deflate tires, and secure any loose parts. Bicycles typically qualify as oversized luggage, so check size and weight limits, as additional fees may apply.
  • Golf Clubs: Use a hard-shell or padded golf bag to protect your clubs. Ensure they are securely fastened inside to avoid movement during transit. Golf bags are considered regular checked baggage but may incur extra charges if they exceed size or weight limits.
  • Ski/Snowboard Equipment: Pack skis, poles, boots, and helmets in a padded bag. Check size and weight limits to avoid additional fees.
  • Fishing Gear: Pack rods in hard cases, while reels and tackle boxes can be placed in checked luggage. Ensure sharp items like hooks are wrapped securely.
2. Transporting Musical Instruments

Musicians can safely travel with their instruments by following these guidelines:

  • Small Instruments: Small instruments (e.g., violins, flutes) can be carried on board if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Use a hard case for protection.
  • Larger Instruments: Larger instruments (e.g., guitars, cellos) may require checking or an extra seat for in-cabin transport. Always use a sturdy hard-shell case and consider loosening strings to reduce tension during the flight.
  • Oversized Instruments: Contact Air Niugini in advance for oversized instruments (e.g., double basses), as they may need to be shipped as cargo. Additional fees may apply.
  • Insurance and Labeling: Label your instrument case with contact details and consider insuring it for added security.
3. Handling Other Special Items

In addition to sports gear and instruments, Air Niugini accommodates a variety of other special items:

  • Artwork and Antiques: Use bubble wrap, foam, and sturdy boxes for fragile or valuable items. Depending on size and fragility, some may need to be transported as cargo. Consider insuring these valuables.
  • Photography and Video Equipment: Carry valuable photography gear on board whenever possible in a padded camera bag. For larger items, use a hard case with padding if checked.
  • Sporting Firearms: Sporting firearms must be declared at check-in and packed in a locked, hard case. Ammunition must be packed separately according to airline and local regulations. Contact Air Niugini ahead of time to confirm documentation and fees.
4. Packing Tips for Special Items

Packing properly can make a big difference in ensuring your special items arrive safely:

  • Use Hard-Shell Cases: For valuable or fragile items, hard-shell cases offer the best protection against rough handling.
  • Add Extra Padding: Cushion your items with bubble wrap, foam, or soft cloth to prevent movement inside the case.
  • Label Your Items: Clearly label your items with your name, address, and contact details. Use a privacy cover on luggage tags to protect your personal information.
  • Consider Insurance: For high-value items, consider purchasing travel insurance that covers loss or damage.
  • Contact Air Niugini: Unsure about your special item? Contact Air Niugini for guidance on packing, handling, or additional fees.

Traveling with special items doesn’t need to be complicated. By following Air Niugini’s guidelines, you can ensure that your belongings are handled with care. Whether transporting sports gear, musical instruments, or other valuables, we’re here to make your journey worry-free. Be sure to review our special items policy before you pack, and feel free to reach out for assistance.