Reviving this thread. Just wrapped up my last trip of the season, so wanted to share my 2025 summary as a datapoint:
I checked in my ski bag (
Head Freeride Bag) at 9 different originating airports with AC: YHZ, YVR, YEG, ATL, YUL, YYC, YQB, YKA, DEN. I also checked my skis with United at 4 different originating airports: SLC, BZN, JAC, RNO. In my bag is generally skis, poles, boots, helmet, goggles, and waxing/tuning tools.
Happy to report that I was not asked about the contents of my bag a single time this season.
Reading back through this thread, I'm wondering if YYZ is the common issue/under special directive?