Flying with a viola... any suggestions?

Question

I'll be flying from America to Europe this summer with my viola. Any suggestions relating to the flight or any other aspect of travelling with an instrument would be much appreciated. Thanks!

Answer 1

Some depends on what else you are flying with. Clothes and toothpaste can be replaced but your instrument cannot be.

Call the airline well beforehand and get the ins and outs but don't rest there. Get to the airport a bit early and speak to the head person (or the customer relations person) and make it all clear. If you have to check it that is fine but it will be registered as delicate. Meaning if it is broken or damaged I know exactly who to blame later.

If you do that often they will go through everything with you and stow it somewhere in the cabin. The crew will understand what is going on and often a representative from the airline will meet you at the gate in order to show "customer service".

As an aside. If you play your cards right often they will bump a person up to a higher seat class to make sure that you are totally fine. If you are travelling with a bunch of people don't share this. All will be anyway but it would be nice to get a bit of special attention.

And of course spend the $30 or whatever to get travel insurance.

Answer 2

What's' they said

Musical Instruments

Small musical instruments may be carried on-board the aircraft providing they meet existing carry-on size requirements and fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Case dimensions may not exceed 45 linear inches (width+length+height), except for guitars which may be brought on board only if they can be safely stowed in an overhead bin or approved stowage location in the cabin. The instrument is considered the passenger's one allowed carry-on bag.

A personal item is allowed in addition to the instrument.