The larger airlines seem to agree on how to accommodate musical instruments, most allow you to walk aboard with a smaller case at no extra charge.
But it’s always best to be armed with the knowledge of your airline’s policies and here they are!
Southwest
Airlines
Carry-On Dimensions: 10 x 16 x 24 inches Personal Item Dimensions: 8.5 x 13.5 x 18.5 inches
If your musical instrument (including case or covering) exceeds carry-on restrictions, it CAN be carried onboard.
The instrument must fit in an overhead bin or under a seat onboard the aircraft.
Space in overheard compartment is NOT guaranteed. Seats may be bought for larger instruments that do not fit in the overhead compartment at a price “no greater than the Child’s Fare.”
Southwest assumes no liability for any damage sustained to the item during transport.
American
Airlines
Personal Item Dimensions: 8 x 14 x 18 inches
You can travel with small musical instruments as your carry-on item on a first come, first serve basis as long as it fits in the overhead bin or fits under the seat in front of you.
Seats may be bought for larger instruments that do not fit in the overhead compartment at an “applicable adult fare.”
American Airlines will only be liable for damages to musical instruments if your instrument is in a hard-sided case and the outside of the case is visibly damaged.
Delta
Personal Item Dimensions: Personal items must be able to fit securely under the seat in front of the passenger.
United
Airlines
Personal Item Dimensions: 9 x 10 x 17 inches
JetBlue
Personal Item Dimensions: 8 x 13 x 17 inches
Spirit
Airlines
Personal Item Dimensions: 8 x 14 x 18 inches
Jay Bendon
25 Dec 2018Im a professional NY/Nj Trombonist member or AMF with prospective Gigs in Florida. How can I bring my horn with me onboard for safety and security? The hard case is 8x11x35 inches.
houghtonhorns1
27 Dec 2018Mr. Bendon,
Our trombone specialist, Christian Paarup, says that he avoids checking his trombone as often as possible. If it must be checked, he recommends padding the inside of the case with clothing to minimize the potential for damage.
What most of our musicians do is travel with an airline that allows them to board early, whether by checking in early or paying extra for priority boarding. This guarantees that there is still space in the overhead compartments to carry on your instrument — board the plane too late and you’ll probably be forced to check the trombone at the gate. Christian uses a Marcus Bonna Super Light case (https://houghtonhorns.com/shop/marcus-bonna-tenor-trombone-super-light/) that is small enough to fit in an airline’s overhead compartment.