SURF-FRIENDLY AIRLINES DIRECTORY

Airlines that won’t treat your boardbag like garbage
Some airlines treat surfboards like royalty. Some treat them like a wheelie bin.

This directory lists the **best surf-friendly airlines**, their **board fees**, and whether your sticks will survive the baggage handlers.
Hawaiian Airlines

Probably the most surf-friendly airline in the world. Fair board fees, careful handling, and massive surf culture.

Fiji Airways

Boards usually fly free as part of checked baggage. Great rep for not smashing boards.

Air New Zealand

Legend status. Boards included in normal baggage allowance. Very surfer-friendly.

Qantas

Boards counted as standard baggage if under 32 kg. Generally careful handlers.

Jetstar (AU/Asia)

Cheap Indo trips. As long as your board is under 1.9m, you’re sweet. Pay for extra weight.

Singapore Airlines

Premium handling. Boards are treated better than most passengers.

Emirates

Boards allowed as normal baggage but they’re strict on weight. Usually safe.

Korean Air

Good for Hawaii / Indo routes. Boardbags accepted with no drama.

American Airlines

Mixed track record. Some surfers swear they break a board every trip.

United Airlines

Often ranked as one of the worst for surfboard carnage. Only use if desperate.

KLM

Expensive fees + inconsistent treatment. Dutch roulette with your quiver.