Ok so everyones got a different idea of how to carry their bike on planes. On other *touring* forums I've been on the general concensus seems to be to not package the bike at all. The idea being that if it looks like a bike the luggage handlers will treat it as one. They say to turn the bars sideways and remove the pedal and saddle to render it un-joy-ridable. I don't know how comfortable I'd be with this. The advantage is that you are less likely to encur extra charges at check in if you're wheeling a bike rather than handing them a big box.
If you do go with a box you have to decide whether to go with a hard case or normal bike box. With a hard case you need to be able to store it at your destination... with a bike box you need to be able to get another on the way home.... Sometimes bike shops in the area can assist with this... or in some countries I've heard a nice tip at your first hotel will go along way in ensuring your box and packaging has a place to live while your travelling.So what's your vote for the best system keeping in mind:
Cost of packaging
Airline fees.
repackaging on way home/ storing packaging
Damage precautions.
domestic/international?
getting out of the airport.
minimal hassle at checkin and baggage claim.