A Guide to Flying with Your Surfboard to Male, Maldives, From the US or Europe
The Maldives is a paradise for surfers who want to hit the waves. But if you’re planning on bringing your own surfboard with you, it can be tricky navigating airline regulations and fees.
by Jim · Tue 3 Jan 2023
A Guide to Flying with Your Surfboard to Male, Maldives, From the US or Europe
The Maldives is a paradise for surfers who want to hit the waves. But if you’re planning on bringing your own surfboard with you, it can be tricky navigating airline regulations and fees. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on which airlines to fly with and what you need to know before booking your ticket.
Airlines from the US
If you’re looking for an airline based in the United States that flies directly to Male International Airport (MLE), your best bet is American Airlines. They allow passengers to check 1 board bag per person, free of charge as long as the bag does not exceed 50lbs (23kg). The dimensions for boards must not exceed 80 linear inches (203cm) in length; this includes any additional protective gear such as fins, wax, etc., so make sure that everything fits within these limits or else you will be charged extra.
Airlines from Europe
For those flying from Europe, there are many options available when it comes to airlines flying directly into MLE airport. Most often, travellers take Qatar Airways or Emirates Airlines. These two airlines offer complimentary board bags up to 32kg per person and they have similar size restrictions of 80 linear inches (203cm). One thing to note is that some European carriers may have stricter weight limits than those listed above; always double-check before packing!
Fees for Excess Weight/Size
If you are travelling with a board bag that exceeds the allowed weight/size limits, then there will be an additional fee imposed by the carrier. This fee varies depending on the airline but generally ranges from $30-$50 USD per kilogram over the limit. It is important that you plan ahead and find out what kind of fees may apply if your board bag goes over the specified allowance – otherwise it could end up costing much more than you bargained for!
If you’re planning on taking your surfboard with you on a trip to the Maldives, doing some research beforehand will save you time and money in the long run. Look into which airlines fly directly into MLE airport, their baggage allowances and fees associated with excess weight/size before booking your ticket – this way, you can ensure that everything runs smoothly during your journey! With these tips in mind, happy surfing!