Updated May 2026
If you're a camera operator, broadcast journalist, sound recordist, or work for a commercial film production company, Delta Air Lines offers discounted baggage rates specifically for your gear. Here's everything you need to know to make sure you're charged the right amount — and not a penny more.
Who Qualifies for Media Baggage Rates?
Delta's media baggage pricing applies to camera, film, video tape, lighting and sound equipment tendered by representatives of:
- Network or local television broadcasting companies
- Commercial film-making companies
If you're an independent content creator or working in a personal capacity, these rates don't automatically apply — you need to be representing one of the above types of organisations at the time of travel.
How to Get the Discounted Rate
There are two ways to access preferred media baggage pricing:
Option 1 — At check-in: Present valid media credentials directly to the Delta agent. Simple, no advance setup needed.
Option 2 — Pre-arrange by email: Send your media credentials to Delta's Global Sales & Support desk at at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure. This is the more reliable option if you're travelling with a large kit or want to avoid any delays at the desk.
Pro tip: If you're checking more than a handful of cases, email ahead. It makes the check-in process smoother and removes any ambiguity about your eligibility.
Domestic Media Rates
For flights within the US (and US–Canada routes where CAD applies):
Bags 1 and 2 follow the same weight and size limits as general baggage — it's the flat $50 media rate that applies instead of the standard excess fee. From the 3rd bag onwards, you get significantly more generous weight allowances.
International Media Rates
🔗 For full details, see Delta’s official policy: Delta Media Baggage Policy
Quick reference
Bags 1 & 2 max weight is always 50 lbs (23 kg) and max size 62 linear inches. All charges are each-way. Linear inches = length + width + height.
Pre-arrange your rates
✉️ media.bags@delta.com
Delta's Global Sales & Support desk. Email at least 24 hours before departure with your media credentials to pre-arrange preferred pricing. For Delta's full policy see delta.com ↗
Travelling with a media ID card?
A recognised media ID card can unlock specialist luggage pricing across multiple airlines — not just Delta. It can save a production significant costs across an entire shoot trip, particularly on multi-leg international itineraries.
Use specialist media bag rates on multiple airlines to and from all countries. Find out more →
And don’t forget that when traveling with media ID, you can take advantage of special media luggage pricing. With a valid Media ID, you will be required to pay a discounted charge for checked luggage, which is far less than the rate offered by Delta (or any other airline).
With Fly With Media ID, you can use specialist rates for media bags on multiple airlines to and from all countries.
