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What are people's experiences with taking a euphonium or tenor tuba on a plane as carry on luggage? I was thinking of taking my Wessex Bydlo on my flight on Wednesday. Southwest Airlines policy states musical instruments can be carried on as long as they fit in the overhead bin. I am not sure if it will fit in the overhead bin. If they make me check it will it most likely get crushed? It is in the original case.

thanks

mike

What about a gate check. I have flown several times with guitars, and gate checked them. They go in with the strollers. Where they ride I do not know. But they are waiting for you as you leave the plane. Had a soprano sax along with four bamboo flutes, all tied together, in the overhead, one guitar gate checked, a backpack under my seat, as well as a checked bag on my last flight, a month ago.

Charlie C. Chowder

I can't say how to do it, but these situations seem to have become far more challenging than was the case 20 years ago. If I needed to get an instrument somewhere I would look for an alternative to flying with it, and consider just about anything to avoid it.

Thanks for the comments. I was thinking gate check might be an option if it doesn't fit in the overhead. I have no real need to bring it. Just wanted something to toot on while visiting the family and to keep the chops up a little bit. I could use a break though, so leaning toward not bringing it at this point.

mike

I just read that story about the violinist on United. Gonna leave the horn behind.

mike

Smart decision Mike. A section mate of mine flew to Europe last summer and hand-carried his new Adams E2 euph. He was able to put in in the overhead on all but one flight. That one flight he had to gate check it and he suffered a crinkled bell. I don't think I'd want to fly with my horn at all... unless I had a anvil-type case.

A marching baritone or the like should fit, and you could get a new horn!

just spring for the $29.97 "luxury package" of exit row legroom and first dibs on the overhead bin.