British Airways, currently one of the few airlines not to charge for the carriage of bike boxes, will implement changes to their Baggage Policy which take effect from 7th October. From this date, sporting equipment will still be included as part of your free checked baggage allowance, as long as the following criteria are met:
Your bike box is the only hold luggage that you check-in;
The weight of the bike box is less than 23kg and
The dimensions of your bike box do not exceed the new reduced maximum dimensions of 190cm x 75cm x 65cm (75in x 29.5in x 25.5in).
The crucial dimension is the height (75cm) of the box which appears to be less than the height of the majority of bike boxes currently manufactured.
If you wish to check-in another bag for the hold, you will be charged the excess baggage rate for each additional bag.
If your bike box weighs more than 23kg but is less than or equal to 32kg, you will be charged £30 per flight at check-in.
If you fly with BA, we recommend that you check your bike box dimensions and weight carefully to avoid incurring an additional £60 excess baggage fee when you arrive at the airport.