Flying with Instruments: Your Essential Guide to Airline Policies

Airline Instrument Policies: A Labyrinth for Musicians

For traveling performers , the journey often begins long before the first note is played at the destination. The challenge begins with moving their gear , and perhaps no part of that journey is more challenging than navigating airline regulations . Each carrier seems to have its own labyrinthine set of rules , special conditions , and informal practices when it comes to musical instruments.

To ensure your beloved instrument arrives intact and without hitches, webpage it's paramount to comprehend these rules, or at least know how to access and interpret them . Beyond preventing harm ; it's about avoiding arguments at the gate , unexpected fees , or the potential necessity of abandoning your instrument .

Understanding DOT and FAA Regulations for Instruments

Stateside , the Department of Transportation (DOT) , and the FAA have implemented guidelines aimed at assisting musicians .

Specifically, the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 included provisions that require airlines to permit passengers to carry a musical instrument in the aircraft cabin if there is space available in an overhead bin or under a seat at the time of boarding . This act represents a crucial legislative development , as it placed a greater responsibility on airlines to accommodate musical instruments . However, "space available" is the key phrase , and its interpretation frequently rests with the flight crew's judgment .

For larger instruments that don't fit in the cabin , the act also specifies that airlines must accept them as checked baggage , contingent on proper packing in a hard case and compliance with the airline's checked baggage size and weight limits . Though these regulations offer a foundational standard , the detailed rules of each airline may still vary significantly .

To protect musicians, the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have implemented regulations in the United States .

Specifically, the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 includes clauses that compel airlines to permit musical instruments in the aircraft cabin if there's room in an overhead compartment or under a seat at the time of boarding . This is a vital piece of legislation because it places more responsibility on airlines to accommodate instruments . However, "space available" is the pivotal term , and it's frequently left to the flight crew's discretion .

For instruments too large for the cabin , the act also mandates that airlines accept them as checked baggage , given they are appropriately packed in a hard case and comply with the airline's checked baggage size and weight restrictions . While these guidelines establish a minimum standard , the specific policies of individual airlines can still differ considerably .

Deciphering Airline Websites: The Fine Print

Prior to reserving your ticket , your first point of call should be the specific airline's official website .