While not specifically banned, and despite being told repeatedly it is up to the airline, I've never been allowed to carry on my skates. It's not the airlines making the decision - it's always the TSA that stops me. I figure skate, and travel to Sun Valley by air for workshops, lessons, etc. My skates are custom made and costly, and frankly, I hate being forced to check or ship my equipment. After my bag was delayed for 24 hours a couple years ago, costing me a day's worth of lessons/workshops, I now ship my skates ahead for such trips/competitions.

There are plenty of horror stories out there about elite skaters' skates being lost in transit. Brent Bommentre, an U.S. ice dancer, lost his skates on his way to the 2008 World Figure Skating Championships. In 2006, Canadian pair champions Anabelle Langlois and Cody Hay withdrew from Cup of Russia when Langlois' baggage was lost. Jordan Noelle McCreary was competing in the 2011 National Solo Dance Championships. Delta Airlines lost her skates, but she competed anyway in rental skates! Elite skaters pretty much know the TSA/CATSA will not let their equipment through. That doesn't give much hope to us non-elite skaters if Michelle Kwan can't even carry her skates.

There are a few decent tips and alternatives listed here: http://www.sk8stuff.com/f_basic_ref/...ith_skates.htm

But I think your idea to wait to mount the blades until you get home and carry your boots as a carryon, is your best bet.

Good luck!