These crates come apart so that the top part can be inverted and fitted into the bottom part, then the metal screens can be set inside the plastic top and bottom. If I were checking an empty crate as baggage, I would disassemble the crate and put it in a box and check the box as luggage. An empty crate will just get thrown around by the baggage handles and could get damaged. At least the box will offer some protection if it gets thrown around (and it probaby will because itis lightweight).