United Airlines announces a reversal in its "no-antlers" policy for all flights. After receiving complaints from hunters, as well as media attention, the airline decided on a change of heart. The announcement came via e-mail from United Airlines headquarters. The statement reads:

Dec. 16, 2009

Hello All -

As you have recently contacted us, I wanted you to be the first to know that we have heard our customers' feedback about our Antler and Animal Horn policy, and are responding.  Soon we will begin accepting Antlers and Animal Horns as checked baggage again.

As many of you may recall or have seen on our Web site, in October 2008 we stopped accepting Antlers and Animal Horns because of the damage the tips caused to the cargo section of the aircraft and to the luggage belonging to our other guests.

We will soon publish new requirements - and ones we previously did not have - about packaging and cleaning Antlers and Animal Horns to ensure their safe, clean transport. These travel requirements will also provide information on the size of Antlers and Animal Horns we can accept based on the type of aircraft being flown (i.e., traditional jet vs. a regional jet) and the special handling fee, which we previously had in place and is similar to other items that require special care.

Stay tuned for further updates on the baggage section of united.com.


Kind Regards,
Robin Urbanski
United Airlines

Texas Trophy Hunters Association had first reported in our October 2009 E-newsletter that United Airlines did not allow for transporting antlers on all its flights. Afterwards,other media reported on their Web sites about United’s policy. At least one organization,The National Shooting Sports Foundation, drafted a letter asking United to revisit its policy, lest other airlines reap the benefits from unsatisfied hunters. TTHA appreciates United's efforts to meet hunters' needs.