Any experiences with new flight travel policy?

[Alonsotuba]

Hi everyone,

I was wondering if anyone here has taken their tubas on a plane after the new flight policy was implemented on March of this year? The new policy states that certain large instruments can be taken on board in the cabin providing that the customer has purchased a seat for the instrument.

More details on the policy can be found here: http://www.transportation.gov/briefing- ... el-musical" target="_blank" target="_blank

I am planning on traveling to a summer program and will need to transport two instruments to the site. Just curious as to what any of you have experienced under the new policy and if it's recommendable. Treating the instruments as luggage is not an option, as I am certain that they will be destroyed.

For anyone interested, here is an in-depth look on the specifics of the new policy for instruments: http://airlines.org/blog/instrument-rat ... musicians/" target="_blank" target="_blank


Thanks for your time!

[Aaron Tindall]

I have flown A LOT like this lately/recently since this past fall. Purchase the extra ticket(s) to read like this: TUBA - CABINBAGGAGE - TINDALL (your last name goes at the end obviously.

Hope this helps!

[Alonsotuba]

Thank you so much for the advice, Mr. Tindall! I have some followup questions if you wouldn't mind sharing. I wanted to ask you:

1.) Which airline you've used for these flights
2.) Did you travel with a hard-case or gig-bag?
3.) Were you given priority boarding for putting your instrument on the plane ahead of the crowd?

Thanks again!

[Aaron Tindall]

1. Delta, American, US Airways, and United. I usually try to fly with Delta.

2. Gig bag. Ask for a seat belt extender from the flight attendant. Put the horn on it's bell in the seat, and strap it down.

3. Yes

[PaulTkachenko]

It normally has to have a window seat, so as not to impede the exit of other passengers (not so it can enjoy the view...)

[Alonsotuba]

Thanks guys! I appreciate the help.