Flying with coral, etc.

[c9miles]

I am taking a trip down to Florida in a few weeks and was thinking of checking out some of the stores. However I'm flying Delta, and I'm not sure if they will let me on the plane with coral, shrimp, etc in the case that I find something to bring back. Does anyone have experience with this and have you had a problem? Thanks.

Chad

[Flasheart]

Have you called the airline?

[c9miles]

No I haven't done that yet...thought I would ask around first then call if I was still unsure.

[Flasheart]

If you do call let us know what they say.

[Mobius]

I make frequent trips to LA and bring back corals almost every time.
I use a styrofoam cooler and make sure everything is multiple bagged and rreally padded to prevent leaks. I use a heat pack to keep things warm.

I have carried the coolers on and also checked. Just be aware it will get xrayed. The TSA agents always ask what it is and are curious. I have never had any problems with die off. I'm not sure about inverts or fish.

Cheers
Mike

[Amand]

As far as corals go what Mobius said works great. You will probably get asked what it is and might have to open it up so they can actually see what you are talking about. As far as shrimp/fish go you might want to call the airline and ask. Although it ultimately will come down to the TSA agent working at the time. I was told one time that no living animals besides dogs or cats could go. They said they had to turn back a kid that had hermit crabs because it wasn't on the list. I would be pretty surprized if you couldn't talk them into letting you carry it on though.

[Doug1]

Check with the airline to be sure, security regs seem to depend on who and their mood at the time. small shipments could possibly be carried on, tho a standard sized shipping container (styro box) prolly needs to be checked. If its much bigger than what you can safely fit into a 6pack sized insulated lunch bag, you are probably better off having it sent back by the store, but that costs more than taking it with you. If they let you take it, be aware that they will probably deny any claims for loss of live animals, other than cat/dog in airline approved carriers and arranged before hand