Flying with a string instrument like a cello can be very stressful. Lots of people have horror stories of their cello showing up badly damaged at their destination.
Over the years, many airlines have realized that important instruments such as the cello still need to be carried on board.
Airlines have gone through a lot of changes in general, from being unpredictable disasters (depending on who is working) to super strict. They go through changes so often though that it's difficult to keep up with the policies about flying with a cello.
We have reviewed a few airlines that fly cellos, and provided some tips on how to ensure safety when carrying your instrument.
Music Instruments Travel Policies for the Major US Airlines
American Airlines
You’re free to pack your instrument in your carry-on (if it’s small enough) or in your checked bag.
If you prefer the carry-on, then it should be able to fit either in the overhead bin or underneath the seat that’s right in front of you.
American Airlines also allows passengers to buy an extra seat for their instrument. But, keep in mind that the additional seat:
If you’ll be carrying the instrument as checked baggage, then ensure that it doesn’t exceed the stipulated size (150 inches) or weight (165 lbs.)
Hawaiian Airlines
The regulations provided by the Hawaiian Airlines are fairly similar to those of the American Airlines.
So you’ll still have the freedom to carry your instrument either in a carry-on or checked luggage. For carry-ons, the bag shouldn’t be so big that it can’t fit in the overhead bin or underneath the front seat.
As for checked bags, the weight of both the instrument and luggage shouldn’t exceed 165 lbs. Or be bigger than 150 inches.
Hawaiian Airlines also requires passengers to loosen the strings on their stringed instruments before boarding.
United Airlines
United Airlines allows passengers to bring a single carry-on bag and one extra personal item. According to the airline’s definitions, a carry-on bag is one that can fit in the overhead bin. A personal item should be small enough to fit underneath a passenger’s front seat.
Based on these policies, it’s okay to carry a guitar, violin or other musical instrument on board but only if:
If you prefer to bring the instrument in your checked baggage, United Airlines requires you to pack it in a hard-shell case. This is necessary to ensure maximum protection.
To add to this, you may incur oversize or overweight charges if your musical instruments exceed the stipulated size and weight.
Such fees are charged for instruments that measure 63 to 115 linear inches and weigh more than 50 lbs. And though you’ll have to pay these additional charges, the airline allows you to carry instruments weighing up to 165 lbs.
JetBlue
Like the other airlines we’ve looked at, JetBlue also allows passengers to carry a musical instrument as either a carry-on or personal item.
However, the airline notes that it should not be held liable for damage if the passenger fails to pack their instruments properly. For the best outcome, it’s recommended that you pack any musical instruments in a hard-sided case.
And even then, JetBlue does not allow any items exceeding 99 lbs. as checked bags. Instead, they recommend buying an extra seat for such big-sized musical instruments. The weight limit allowed in this case is 165 lbs.
Cello-friendly Airlines in Australia
Qantas
Qantas requires travellers to measure their musical instrument to find out whether it meets the size requirements before checking in. If it comes up a little short, you can bring it as a carry-on and wear it in your cabin.
Larger musical instruments than allowed within the luggage allowance are considered to be a bulky item and can have an extra seat purchased for them.
Arrive at the airport on time to avoid missing your flight and to be able to properly place your musical instrument in an overhead locker.
If you're a registered musician with an eligible musical association, you can request extra baggage allowance when flying on any Qantas or QantasLink flight within Australia.
In general, you're allowed three bags of checked baggage to take on board a flight with more weight allowance applying to your class of travel and Frequent Flyer status.
Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia allows you bring small musical instruments as your carry-on baggage. These instruments should not be bigger than 142cm in total linear dimensions. Certain Cellos are good examples of how certain instruments fit these dimensions.
Travellers will have to leave an under-sized piece of luggage with their instrument at the check-in counter, which will count as a piece of carry-on baggage. A traveller can only take as many carry-on items as is allowed, plus this one for the instrument.
Please measure the musical instrument before you board your plane. It is advisable that you board the aircraft promptly in order to stow your instrument in an overhead locker.
Jetstar
You can bring on board a Jetstar flight most musical instruments including a Cello. However, in some specific cases, the airline requires that they be carried on the plane and others need to be checked in as checked baggage.
If your instrument is longer than one metre, it will need to be carried onto the plane. Your Cello can be stored in the overhead lockers. The weight of your instrument counts towards your carry-on baggage allowance.
Economy Starter fares don't come with checked baggage. You'll pay a fee for up to 15kg per passenger and a further price per kilo thereafter.
Can You Bring a Cello on a Flight According to DOT?
The DOT does not have specific rules about taking instruments with you on a flight. However, according to the Australian Strings Association, each major Australian airline has its own policy on taking musical instruments as checked or carry-on baggage.
Airline policies can change at any time, so it is beneficial to check the relevant airline's website before traveling. This information does not apply to international or regional airlines, so please visit the individual airline's websites for more specific information.
One issue many musicians face is that check-in staff and cabin crew may not be knowledgeable about musical instrument policies for the flight, although this is changing.
When bringing your cello on board the plane, it's important to be prepared and have all the necessary documents ready. Contact carrier with your instrument size and additional items before you head through security.
Tips Before You Travel
Wondering how to pack a cello for airplane flights? Follow these tips:
Double check with airline
Airlines that typically allow a cello carry-on may become stricter about the policy if there is not enough space on the flight. This might be a consideration when it comes to summer or long-distance travel. Contact your airline well ahead of time to avoid any inconveniences.
Use a hardcase
Cello cases are typically soft and easy to carry, but long-distance travel requires something a little tougher. Hard cases for cellos can help you feel more confident about checking it with your airline when a less-careful staff load the aircraft.
Provide padding in the case
When your cello is travelling, it may experience atypical turbulence (in the form of bumps and knocks) or vibration. You should make sure to pack it properly, so that chances of damage can be minimised.
Leave case unlocked for TSA
TSA agents have to search every music instrument case for security reasons. They have to go through a lot of cases and luggage, so make their job easier by leaving your cello case unlocked.
Get cello insurance
If you have a higher-end cello, you should already purchase insurance for your valuable instrument. Not only are they more at risk when travelling, but they may also be damaged or stolen without proper protection.
Checked Baggage vs Bring on Cabin (Buying Extra Ticket)
Your checked cello bags can take up to 3 days to arrive at your destination and they will be soaked in sweat, dirt, and tears.
The best option for flying with your instrument may be to purchase a seat for it on the plane. But you’ll want to buy your seat directly from the airline to make sure that you've secured it properly. In some cases, this may be the most affordable way to ensure your cello arrives safely.
In Summary
Traveling and flying with a cello can be difficult. It can be expensive, so do your research, prepare as much as you can, and be open to the process. It also takes practice to get really good taking your cello with you on a flight whenever you travel.
With experience, things get easier, and you even learn creative ways to protect you instrument!
