A recent reported change in JetBlue and Delta’s carry-on policies has caused confusion among Disney and Star Wars fans. The airline has allegedly announced, effective immediately, that lightsabers are no longer permitted as carry-on items. A guest shared their frustration with the new rule on social media, writing: “PSA: JetBlue not allowing lightsabers on anymore. Like literally today. So got to flight and couldn’t bring it on.”
This policy shift has raised questions regarding the airline’s stance on oversized or unusual items that may not fit the standard carry-on criteria. While JetBlue’s official website does not directly mention lightsabers, its guidelines prohibit items that could be considered dangerous or used as weapons, including weapons, explosives, and incendiaries. While lightsabers are often viewed as toys, their size and structure could now be deemed a safety risk during flight, contributing to the updated policy.
Interestingly, in a related comment on a Facebook post about this issue, another guest shared their own recent experience, stating: “We flew home with 2 last week on Delta. The flight attendants stored it at the front of the plane for us and gave them back to us at the end of the flight.” This highlights the variability in airline policies, with some airlines still accommodating lightsabers, while others, like JetBlue, are now enforcing stricter rules.
Recommendations for Travelers
For those planning to travel with lightsabers, especially on JetBlue, it’s crucial to stay informed about the airline’s policy before flying. Here are some tips to navigate this change:
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Check with the Airline: Before you pack, call or check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date information on their carry-on policies regarding lightsabers.
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Disassemble the Lightsaber: If your airline allows it, disassemble the lightsaber into its smaller components to reduce its size, making it easier to store in your luggage or overhead compartment.
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Consider Checked Luggage: If bringing the lightsaber as a carry-on isn’t an option, it may be safer to check it in your luggage. Be sure to use the provided carrying case to protect your lightsaber during transit.
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Ship It: Disney offers a shipping service that allows you to send your lightsaber directly home from the parks, which could save you from dealing with the hassle at the airport.
A Shift Moving Forward
With the influx of Star Wars fans visiting theme parks during special events like May the 4th, it seems likely that this change is part of an effort to better manage the growing number of oversized items being transported. While the sudden shift may be an inconvenience to some, travelers can minimize disruptions by planning ahead and exploring alternative options.
Hopefully, as this policy shift settles in, airlines like JetBlue will provide clearer guidelines to avoid further confusion. For now, Disney fans are advised to adjust their packing strategy when bringing their beloved lightsabers to the parks.
