Note: This article was last updated in early 2022. Please contact your airline to confirm this information is still valid before traveling.
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, so 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 compartments 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
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.
Kacie Wright
Hi Marquita, Houghton Horns employees fit their French horns in overhead compartments on airplanes all the time!
This is probably only possible for a detachable bell French horn. Fixed bell horns will be too large to be carried on to pretty much any airplane. You can ask your local repair shop about getting your bell cut so it is easier to travel with.
You also have to be careful which size case you try to carry on, and how strict that individual airline is. A Marcus Bonna MB-SD is our preferred case for travel because the bell section can be unscrewed from the body and fit under your seat. US airlines are generally a little more permissive. We’ve found that flights originating in the EU traveling into the US are the strictest – a couple of times we’ve been asked to fit our cases into the carry-on size confirmation tray before being allowed to board the plane. Always measure your case and compare it to that particular airline’s requirements before you purchase your ticket.
Many of our employees pay extra for early boarding so we can get on the plane first and snag an open overhead compartment spot. Boarding late can be dangerous because they might force you to gate-check your case if they run out of space. Try to get on the plane as quickly as possible!
Marquita Hynes
Will a French horn in a hard case fit in the overhead compartment? I am not comfortable with it being gate-checked or put with regular luggage. Tooooo risky.
Respectfully, — m.h.