Courier Flights?

[LoDivaLoca]

Hi -
I'm trying to understand these courier flights, and wanted to know if anyone has tried it. What was your experience? Would you recommend it? Sounds strange to me (if I understand it correctly).

Any info would be MOST appreciated!

 

[jel0511]

I've personally never flew courier, but have had a friend who has. What the deal is, is you get to purchase your ticket at a reduced rate, but you give up your baggage allowance for the company to use. You are only allowed to carry-on your luggage, which must be in compliance with carry-on regulations. If you don't plan on bringing a lot of stuff, this can be a great way to get a reduced rate. My friend swore by this when flying over to Europe to visit his then girlfriend.

 

[LoDivaLoca]

wow, give up my luggage!??? LOL..... I guess I could stand to finally learn to pack lighter.

Anyone else with experiences??

 

[NotUrsula]

... the whole point is to get cargo cleared through customs quickly.
Once upon a time you could get free airfare this way. Those days are mostly gone now; you usually have to pay for the privilege now; it's not much, but it's not free.

The Washington Post did a story on courier flying in late 1991. According to the Post Travel staff, the facts were still current as of 3 weeks ago, when they re-posted the story in response to a post in one of their live online travel chats. Here's the link:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A43444-2001Dec14.html

 

[LoDivaLoca]

Great, thanks for the info!