Ice Skates and flying
Right, random thread title but I find myself needing advice and the airline websites are as clear as mud (well, to me!).
I'm potentially competing at a figure skating competition in Glasgow next April time (awaiting confirmation of dates). I don't fancy the train, so was planning on flying - choice of EMA, BHX and MAN all within equal distance.
Question is, how do I need to pack my skates for the trip? Obviously they've got to go in the hold (which worries me, they're my most prized possession!) but do they get counted as sports equipment, or normal baggage? Do I need to do anything to them apart from secure them in my skate bag? Are they even allowed on an aircraft??
Any advice, greatly appreciated. Also any airlines that operate direct flights from the airports listed, so I can start looking at prices would be most helpful - the comparison sites seem to want to send me via London, Southend or Stornaway...