Expensive Mistake

[Mike Farley]

Checking expensive camera gear into the hold when flying is definitely not a good idea. Even if it reappears at the other end of the journey, which is not a given, it might not be in one piece. This article from PetaPixel shows what happened to some very pricey Leica gear. If it is just the front element of that Noctilux lens which has been damaged, it might well be repairable as replacement is usually possible.

https://petapixel.com/2017/08/17/11000- ... ar-flying/

At present, cameras are excluded from the restrictions on electronic devices being taken onto planes as cabin luggage when flying to the UK from certain countries. If that changes, these pictures demonstrate the wisdom of packing your equipment securely if it becomes subject to the tender mercies of baggage handlers. More information about the current regulations are here.

https://petapixel.com/2017/08/17/11000- ... ar-flying/

Until April 2016, Leica offered its Passport warranty which covered accidental damage in the first year of ownership for items purchased new. A formerly nice extra on a top end product where the beancounters have won out. Had it still been in place, the owner would not now be looking at an expensive repair bill if they do not have any other insurance.

[Mike Farley]

According to DPReview, the two front elements of the £8k Noctilux lens were shattered in transit. A "sacrificial" filter on the lens did little to provide protection from whatever befell it, which must have quite a whack. DPReview believes that the lens could well be a write-off.

https://www.dpreview.com/news/786142707 ... on-a-plane