United Airlines changes its 'no antler' policy

In response to numerous complaints and feedback received, United Airlines has changed its policy of not allowing antlers to be checked as baggage and will now accept them, with some restrictions.

The new policy will allow passengers to check one set of antlers or animal horns per ticketed customer, at a cost of $175. There are certain linear dimension restrictions that must be met, and the antler tips and skull must be wrapped and properly protected.

United had implemented the ban because of the damage antler and horn tips were causing to the cargo section of aircraft as well as to other passenger luggage. However, this left some hunters who flew the airline to other states or countries to hunt unable to transport their trophy racks back home.

As previously reported on Outposts, the U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance and other hunting advocacy groups posted information about the banning of antlers on the carrier, and suggested that hunters contact airline officials voicing their displeasure.

Thankfully, United execs were willing to rethink things and come up with a solution that will hopefully please all parties.

--Kelly Burgess

Photo: Caribou antlers in the snow. Credit: Jo Goldmann / U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

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