Flying with Musical Instruments

US law (FAA Modernization and Reform Act, Section 403) gives passengers the right to carry on small musical instruments in the overhead bin or under the seat, as long as they fit and space is available.

The US Law on Instruments

Under federal law, US airlines must allow passengers to carry on musical instruments if they fit in the overhead bin (with a standard carry-on fee, if applicable) or under the seat as a personal item. Airlines cannot deny this right based solely on the item being a musical instrument.

Violins, ukuleles, small guitars: Can usually fit under the seat — treat as a personal item
Full-size acoustic guitar: Fits in overhead on most mainline jets if stored flat; soft case preferred
Cello: You may purchase an additional seat (called a "lap child seat") for a cello — airlines must allow this
Electric guitar in hardcase: Hard cases typically exceed overhead dimensions — gate check or check as baggage

Airline-by-Airline Rules

Delta: Guitars allowed in overhead; violins/ukuleles under seat; cello can buy a seat
American: Same as Delta; boarding early (Group 1–3) is key to securing overhead space
United: Instruments in overhead or under seat per federal law; purchase additional seat for large instruments
Southwest: Open boarding means overhead bin space is first-come-first-served — board early (A-group) for the best chance
JetBlue: Same federal law applies; Even More Space boarding helps secure overhead bin access

Checking Instruments as Baggage

If you must check an instrument, hard cases are essential. Use TSA-approved locks and mark the case "Fragile." Fill the case with foam or padding to prevent movement. Many musicians purchase separate instrument insurance for high-value instruments.

Checked fee: Standard checked bag fee applies ($35 first bag on most airlines)
Oversize fee: Applies if case exceeds 115 in linear dimensions (many guitar cases do)
Liability: Airlines limit liability for fragile items — check your instrument insurance policy