Shipping the AviVest or AviPack:

Each device contains a pressurized gas cylinder, classifying it as a "Dangerous Good" (Hazardous Material) in the eyes of the DOT* and IATA** - The governing bodies for ground and air transport of goods throughout North America. Because of this classification, shipping to certain areas may be restricted and all shipping incurs added handling charges. All devices ship via UPS or Fedex.

Shipping a AviPack or AviVest with a full cylinder requires specific Hazardous Material Shipping Certification. WARY is fully certified.

Traveling with the AviPack or AviVests:

Ground travel — no issues.

Air Travel — Complicated. Currently IATA allows a passenger to carry on an Avalanche rescue backpack (see excerpt below). However, the TSA*** is currently not allowing passengers with pressurized bottles through security checkpoints at airports (due to heightened security after Sept. 11, 2001).

The TSA just revised how they handle compressed cylinders. Currently they require the regulator (activator) to be completely removed from the cylinder - i.e to confirm that the cylinder is empty. This can be done with a WARY cylinder. Care should be taken to not lose or damage the o-ring that seals the regulator-cylinder threaded connection.

You can read the TSA's rule here:
http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/compressed-gas-cylinders

At this time we recommend not traveling with a charged cylinder in your AviPack or AviVest. If you would like to travel with your device, you can contact us so that we can ship a cylinder (if possible) or recommend a dealer who you can rent or refill a cylinder at your destination.

*    Department of Transportation
**   International Air Transportation Association
*** Transportation Security Administration