Flying by Qantas is the way to go!

Go directly (in person) to the cargo desk at the airport from which you intend travelling a few days (2-3) before you leave, and speak with them, trying to sound as if you know what you are doing. Bluff works. It helps to already have a Dangerous Goods Certificate (available close by at most airports through DGM company). Do NOT phone Qantas, as the little desk jockeys will tell you to get an agent. This is incorrect.

Bikes are placed on a pallet and put into the aluminium containers then into the belly of the plane. All loading and strapping down is done by Qantas, using their tiedowns etc etc. Have less than a quarter tank of fuel (less is better) and the battery leads must be disconnected and taped. THAT IS ALL! All of your camping gear etc goes on the bike. My riding clothes (less helmet) go into a bag strapped over the seat, leaving almost nothing as carryon luggage.

I have now flown my bikes 5 times - 2 BMWs x BNE to LAX; 2 BMWs x LAX to BNE; and one WeeStrom from SYD to Frankfurt. It is really SOOOOO easy!! No dramas anywhere. Even in Frankfurt, where I spoke no German at all, it took only about an hour, most of which was spent waiting in queues or wandering off to get a coffee while waiting.

When the current leg ends in South Africa late September, I'll fly the bike home from JoBurg to SYD, a direct flight - with Qantas.

PM me if you need further info.

__________________
Margaret
"twenty grand and twenty miles don't make you a biker"
www.ridingtoextremes.com