All aircraft have a Maximum Authorised Take-off Weight.  This weight is determined by the aircraft manufacturer and may not, under any circumstances, be exceeded.  The weight itself is derived according to numerous factors, aircraft performance and safety being the two main factors. 

The distance an aircraft has to fly determines how much fuel it will need to carry.  The amount of fuel the aircraft requires, will determine how many passengers and how much baggage may be carried.

As a basic rule, you are only allowed 10kgs of baggage per passenger.  However, depending on the route being flown, aircraft being chartered and the number of passengers, this can change considerably.  For example, one passenger travelling from Harare to Kariba, will be allowed more than 10kgs baggage, as the flight distance is relatively short and therefore the fuel requirement is relatively small.  However, four passengers travelling from Harare to Johannesburg may only be allowed 5kgs of baggage each, as the flight distance is long and the fuel requirement is large.

Not only is the weight of the baggage a consideration, but so to is the bulk/dimensions of the baggage.  Certain suitcases (generally the hard case variety) cannot fit into light aircraft.  Soft, squash able duffle bags are preferable.

Some of the larger passengers may also have practical difficulties in certain aircraft i.e. boarding and exiting the aircraft.  You are strongly advised to seek guidance from our operational personal in this regard (info [AT] guthrieaviation [DOT] com).  Failure to do so will only result in your own disappointment.

What are Dangerous Goods

Dangerous Goods are items that may endanger the safety of an aircraft or persons on board the aircraft.

Dangerous Goods are also known as restricted articles, hazardous materials and dangerous cargo.  Their carriage on Guthrie Aviation aircraft is primarily governed by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Regulations.

Dangerous Goods must not be carried in (or as) passenger or crew-checked baggage or carry-on baggage, except as indicated in the table below.  Security type attache cases incorporating Dangerous Goods, such as lithium batteries or pyrotechnic devices, are totally forbidden.

Disabling devices such as mace, pepper spray, etc. containing an irritant or incapacitating substance are prohibited on the person, in checked and carry-on baggage.

Dangerous Goods

Civil Aviation Safety Regulations forbid the carriage of most items of Dangerous Goods onto an aircraft.

Firearms and Ammunition

We may agree to carry firearms and ammunition as checked baggage.  If we do, these items must be packed in accordance with all applicable national and international laws and regulations.

A guide to Dangerous Goods

What to take out, what to declare and what's okay More Details

The pilot-in-command must be informed of the location
^The approval of the operator(s) is required
Permitted on one's person
Permitted in or as checked in baggage
Permitted in or as carry-on baggage
Type of dangerous good
Disabling devices such as mace, pepper spray, etc. containing an irritant or incapacitating substance are prohibited on the person, in checked and carry-on baggage.
Electro shock weapons (e.g. Tasers) containing dangerous goods such as explosives, compressed gases, lithium batteries, etc. are forbidden in carry-on baggage or checked baggage or on the person.
Security-type attaché cases, cash boxes, cash bags , etc. incorporating dangerous goods, such as lithium batteries and/or pyrotechnic material, are totally forbidden.
Ammunition (cartridges for weapons), securely packaged (in Div. 1.4S, UN 0012 or UN 0014 only), in quantities not exceeding 5 kg (11 lb) gross weight per person for that person's own use, excluding ammunition with explosive or incendiary projectiles. Allowances for more than one passenger must not be combined into one or more packages.  More Details
Camping stoves and fuel containers that have contained a flammable liquid fuel, with empty fuel tank and/or fuel container.  More Details
Battery-powered wheelchairs or other similar mobility devices with non-spillable batteries which comply with Packing Instruction 872 or Special Provision A67, provided the battery terminals are protected from short circuits, e.g. by being enclosed in a battery container, and the battery is securely attached to the wheelchair or mobility aid.
Battery-powered wheelchairs or other mobility devices with spillable batteries or with lithium batteries.  More Details
Mercury barometer or thermometer carried by a representative of a government weather bureau or similar official agency.
Lithium ion batteries with a Watt-hour rating exceeding 100 Wh but not exceeding 160 Wh for portable electronic devices. No more than two spare batteries may be carried in carry-on baggage only. These batteries must be individually protected to prevent short circuits. Equipment containing such batteries may be in checked or carry-on baggage.  More Details
Avalanche rescue backpack, one (1) per passenger, equipped with a pyrotechnic trigger mechanism containing less than 200mg net of Division 1.4S and less than 250 mg of compressed gas in Division 2.2. The backpack must be packed in such a manner that it cannot be accidentally activated. The airbags within the backpacks must be fitted with pressure relief valves.
Chemical Agent Monitoring Equipment when carried by staff members of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons on official travel.
Heat producing articles such as underwater torches (diving lamps) and soldering irons.  More Details
Carbon dioxide, solid (dry ice), in quantities not exceeding 2.5 kg (5lb) per passenger when used to pack perishables not subject to these Regulations in checked or carry-on baggage, provided the baggage (package) permits the release of carbon dioxide gas. Each item of checked baggage must be marked "dry ice" or "carbon dioxide, solid" and with the net weight of dry ice or an indication that there is 2.5kg or less dry ice.
Insulated packagings containing refrigerated liquid nitrogen (dry shipper), fully absorbed in a porous material and intended for transport, at low temperature, of non-dangerous products are not subject to these Regulations provided the design of the insulated packaging would not allow the build-up of pressure within the container and would not permit the release of any refrigerated liquid nitrogen irrespective of the orientation of the insulated packaging.
Non-flammable gas cylinder fitted into a life jacket containing carbon dioxide or other suitable gas in Division 2.2, up to two (2) small cylinders per passenger, and up to two (2) spare cartridges.
Oxygen or air gaseous cylinders required for medical use. The cylinder must not exceed 5 kg gross weight. Note: Liquid oxygen systems are forbidden for transport.
Portable medical electronic devices (Automated External Defibrillators (AED), Nebulizer, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), etc.) containing lithium metal or lithium ion cells or batteries may be carried.  More Details
Aerosols in Division 2.2, with no subsidiary risk, for sporting or home use.
Non-radioactive medicinal or toilet articles (including aerosols) such as hair sprays, perfumes, colognes and medicines containing alcohol. The total net quantity of all above mentioned articles must not exceed 2 kg (4.4 lb) or 2 L (2 qt), and the net quantity of each single article must not exceed 0.5 kg (1 lb) or 0.5 L (1 pt). Release valves on aerosols must be protected by a cap or other suitable means to prevent inadvertent release of the contents.
Alcoholic beverages, when in retail packagings, containing more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol by volume, in receptacles not exceeding 5L, with a total net quantity per person of 5L.
Energy efficient light bulbs when in retail packaging intended for personal or home use.
Non-flammable, non-toxic gas cylinders worn for the operation of mechanical limbs. Also, spare cylinders of a similar size if required to ensure an adequate supply for the duration of the journey.
Portable electronic devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion cells or batteries, such as watches, calculating machines, cameras, cellular phones, lap-top computers, camcorders, etc., when carried by passengers or crew for personal use.   More Details
Spare lithium or lithium ion cells or batteries, for such consumer electronic devices may be carried in carry-on baggage only. These batteries must be individually protected to prevent short circuits.  More Details
Hair curlers containing hydrocarbon gas, up to one (1) per passenger or crew-member, provided that the safety cover is securely fitted over the heating element. These hair curlers must not be used on board the aircraft at any time. Gas refills for such curlers are not permitted in checked or carry-on baggage.
Medical or clinical thermometer, which contains mercury, one (1) per passenger for personal use, when in its protective case.
Fuel cell systems, and spare fuel cartridges powering portable electronic devices (for example cameras, cellular phones, laptop computers, and camcorders).  More Details
Radioisotopic cardiac pacemakers or other devices, including those powered by lithium batteries, implanted into a person, or radiopharmaceuticals contained within the body of a person as the result of medical treatment.
Safety matches (one small packet) or a cigarette lighter that does not contain unabsorbed liquid fuel, other than liquefied gas, intended for use by an individual when carried on the person. Lighter fuel and lighter refills are not permitted on one's person nor in checked or carry-on baggage. Note: "Strike anywhere" matches, "Blue flame" or "Cigar" lighters are forbidden.

More information

What to take out, what to declare and what's okay

Enhanced security measures for carry on baggage, in many countries including Zimbabwe, may override these allowances in some instances.  To view carry on baggage allowances, please visit our Carry on Baggage - Country Specific information.

Ammunition (cartridges for weapons), securely packaged

If you are seeking approval to carry ammunition, please send the following details to info [AT] gas [DOT] co [DOT] zw

Name and Address
Flight Details
Firearms Licence number and expiry date
Type of ammunition
Return email, fax or postal address.

If you are only planning to carry firearms, no further action is required however – the firearm must be declared at time of check-in, and it must be unloaded and securely packaged for check-in.

In all cases firearms and/or ammunition must be carried in accordance with the regulatory requirements of the State or Territory you are travelling to, or from.

Declaration forms for the temporary importation of weapons and ammunition into Zimbabwe can be found here and must be completed in triplicate.

Camping stoves and fuel containers that have contained a flammable liquid fuel

With the approval of the operator, as checked baggage only, camping stoves and fuel containers for camping stoves that have contained a flammable liquid fuel may be carried provided the fuel tank of the camping stove, and/or fuel container has been completely drained of all liquid fuel and action has been taken to nullify the danger

To nullify the danger, the empty fuel tank and/or container must be allowed to drain for at least 1 hour, the fuel tank and/or container must then be left uncapped for a minimum of 6 hours to allow any residual fuel to evaporate.  Alternative methods, such as adding cooking oil to the fuel tank and/or container to elevate the flash point of any residual liquid above the flash point of flammable liquid and then emptying the fuel tank and/or container, are equally acceptable.  The fuel tank, and/or container must then have the cap securely fastened and be wrapped in an absorbent material such as paper towel and placed in a polyethylene or equivalent bag.  The top of the bag must then be sealed or gathered and closed.

NOTE: This exception is NOT applicable to items with internal combustion engines eg. lawnmowers, chain saws, brushcutters etc.  These items are not permitted for carriage as baggage.

Wheelchairs or other battery-powered mobility devices with spillable batteries or with lithium-ion batteries.

Wheelchairs or other battery-powered mobility aids with spillable batteries or lithium-ion batteries, provided that the wheelchair or mobility aid can be loaded, stowed, secured and unloaded always in an upright position, the battery terminals are protected from short circuits and the battery is securely attached to the wheelchair or mobility aid.  If the wheelchair or mobility aid cannot be loaded, stowed, secured and unloaded always in an upright position, the battery must be removed and the wheelchair or mobility aid may then be carried as checked baggage without restriction.  The removed battery must be carried in accordance with the regulations.

Passengers wishing to carry wheelchairs with lithium-ion batteries must provide a material safety data sheet from the manufacturer to identify if the battery is permitted for carriage by air.

Portable electronic devices containing lithium or lithium ion cells or batteries and Spare lithium or lithium ion cells or batteries

• Spare Lithium ion batteries and cells with a Watt hour rating greater than 160Wh, are not permitted on an aircraft under any circumstances.
• Spare lithium ion batteries and cells with a Watt hour rating of between 100Wh and 160Wh are limited to two batteries per passenger.  Batteries must have terminals insulated or protected to prevent short circuit and must be carried in cabin baggage only. – Operator approval is required for these prior to travel.
• Spare Lithium ion batteries and cells with a Watt hour rating or less than 100Wh have no limit to the number that can be carried, batteries must have terminals insulated or protected to prevent short circuit and must be carried in cabin baggage only
• Spare Lithium metal or Lithium alloy batteries with a lithium content of less than 2 grams have no limit to the number that can be carried, however, batteries must have terminals insulated or protected to prevent short circuit and must be carried in cabin baggage only.
• If batteries are installed in equipment such as laptop computers, camera, calculators etc – the above limits still apply, however they can be carried as checked baggage, provided the electronic device is protected from accidental activation.

Heat producing articles

Battery-powered equipment capable of generating extreme heat, which would cause a fire if activated, e.g. underwater high-intensity lamps, providing that the heat producing component or the battery is packed separately so as to prevent activation during transport.  Any battery that has been removed must be protected against short circuit.

Gas cylinders in torches must be removed and cannot travel as either checked or carryon baggage.

Fuel cell systems, and spare fuel cartridges

Please contact info [AT] guthrieaviation [DOT] com for further information.

Are your goods cleared for take-off?

Dangerous Goods must be declared or unpacked before you take off.

While Dangerous Goods must not be packed in carry-on or checked baggage, except as indicated on the table above, many items of Dangerous Goods can be safely transported by air provided that they are correctly packaged, labelled and accompanied by the appropriate documentation.

Who to ask about Dangerous Goods

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations describe in detail what Dangerous Goods may be transported by air, in what quantities, and how they should be packed.

For many people, air sickness is a serious problem that affects them every time they go on an airplane. This page lists some of the ways in which people can help prevent themselves from getting air sickness, or its effect:

1. Causes
2. Avoidance
3. Medication
4. In-Flight cure

 Causes

Air sickness occurs when your brain receives mixed messages, due to the fact that you appear to be moving and shaking in some ways, while in other ways you appear to be still.  Although this may be brought on in still, calm flying conditions, it is usually far worse in bumpy, turbulent conditions.  Fear of flying is also a major contributing factor to air/motion sickness.

Avoidance

Plan your flight times.  Early morning or late afternoon normally is less turbulent than other times of the day.  Depending on the season however, late afternoon may have other weather considerations i.e. thunderstorms.

Do not eat a large meal before getting on the plane.  Eating a large meal just before your flight increases your chance of getting air sick.  Always eat a light meal before going on a flight.  Choices include crackers, a piece of fruit, olives or sucking on a lemon.

Try to avoid thinking about getting air sick.  If you do, you may convince yourself you are sick.

Try to stay in you seat as much as possible.  Sitting down in a chair means that sudden movements by the plane will affect you less.  As a result, less confusing messages will be sent to your brain, due to the fact that your body will not notice as much motion.

Avoid reading on the plane if it makes you feel sick.  Many people find that reading on the plane makes them feel sick.  As a result, you may want to avoid reading while in flight.  But for people that are not air sick, reading actually kills boredom.  If your going on a long flight the plane would usually have some sort of entertainment for example a personal television where you can play games, watch daily TV shows and recent movies.  Take advantage of this and get yourself interested in a movie or show, this way you'll forget your present place.

Try to sit near the front of the aircraft or near the wings.  Near the wings the plane is more stable, so there is less shaking to send your brain confusing signals.  If there is shaking, your brain may receive confusing signals due to the fact that your sight may not show movement, yet you can feel that you are moving.

Get used to motion before the flight.  Some people have stated that by taking part in activities such as jumping on a trampoline in the time before the flight, you may get more used to motion, and as a result not be affected by the sickness as much.  You will have to perform the motion based activity many times before you notice the effect, however.

Medication

Take medicine such as Dramamine or Bonine, 30 minutes before take off and landing.  

This is usually the worst part.  Medicines to prevent travel sickness work by preventing the confusing messages being sent to your brain.  Note that some medicines require a prescription (such as Scopolamine), although some are available over the counter (OTC).

You can also buy acupressure wristbands at your local pharmacy, although the evidence surrounding acupressures effectiveness is not entirely conclusive. 

Medication can give you side effects that could last for hours.  Consult a doctor before taking any medication, especially Scopolamine.

Use scopolamine patches. 

They are little patches you wear behind your ear, however, this is not used for children under 12.  Side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and blurry vision.

In-Flight Cure

Keep in mind you can always take medication even after nausea sets in, it's still as safe and effective after symptoms set in as it is before they do.

Minimise visual activity. If you feel sick, close your eyes.

Improve ventilation, avoid irritating fumes.  Sometimes opening a window can help as a nausea remedy (not always applicable in airplanes!).

Keep as still as possible with your head back, and face into any available fresh air (from air vents etc).

On all flights, it is always a good idea to carry a suitable form of picture I.D., regardless of where you are travelling. 

On international flights, you must have your current passport, with sufficient spare pages, Visa's and validity to cover your entire trip.

Passport requirements will vary from one country to another.  Please ensure that you are fully aware of the requirements for your trip.

CONDITIONS OF CARRIAGE

1. The carriage or flight is subject to the Special Conditions and Regulations of the Carrier which are displayed and open for inspection at the Booking Offices insofar as those Conditions and Regulations are not inconsistent with the provisions set out hereunder.
   
   
2. .In the case of international carriage where the passengers journey involves an ultimate destination or stop in a country other than the country of departure, the Warsaw Convention as amended from time to time and set out in the schedules of the Carriage by Air Act, Chapter 256, may be applicable and that Convention governs and in most cases, limits the liability of Carrier(s) for death or personal injury and in respect of loss or damage to baggage.
   
   
3. In the case of internal carriage, where the passengers journey does not involve an ultimate destination or stop in a country other than the country of departure, until such time as the aforesaid Carriage by Air Act, Chapter 256, is made applicable to internal carriage, the Carrier(s) liability for death, personal injury and in respect of loss of or damage to baggage or cargo, is limited in terms of the Special Conditions and Regulations of the Carrier, which are displayed and open for inspection at their Booking Office. The carrier shall not be liable for damage occasioned by delay in the carriage by air of passengers, luggage or cargo. Save where liability is imposed in terms of the Warsaw Convention as contained in the carriage by air act, Chapter 256, referred to above.
   
   
   1. The carrier, their servants and agents shall be under no liability in or respect of rising out of the carriage or any other services or operators of the carrier, their servants or agents and the passenger by acceptance of this ticket hereby renounces for himself, his representative and dependents, all claims against the carrier for compensation or damages, whether sustained on board the aircraft or in the course of, or form any of the operations of flight embarking or disembarking or in the course of any ancillary services or otherwise caused directly or indirectly to him or his belongings or to persons who, except for these conditions, might be entitled to make a claim whether or not caused or occasioned by the act of negligence, neglect or default of the carrier, their servants or agents, mechanical or other defect or otherwise howsoever cause
      
      
   2. In the event if the conditions and regulations stated or referred to above, or any part thereof relating to the exclusion or limitation of the liability of the carrier being contrary to the law for the state of territory in the court in which an action is brought, the liability of the carrier shall be excluded or limited insofar as such permits and the carrier shall be entitled to the benefit of every exclusion or limitation of liability permitted by such law
      
      
4. Save where otherwise provided in terms of the convention aforesaid and laws referred to above, any action against the carrier shall be brought in Zimbabwe.
   
   
5. The passenger acknowledges by the issue of this ticket that he has agreed to the conditions of carriage enumerated above and that he has acquainted himself and has agreed with the special conditions and regulations of the charterer displayed as aforesaid at the booking office of the carrier.
   
   
6. No agent, servant or representative of the carrier has authority to alter, modify or waive any of the provisions of the conditions of carriage and the special conditions and regulations of the carrier.