What the TSA letter boils down to is that musical instruments MAY be carried onto a plane IF they meet the size/weight restrictions and number of bags restrictions of whatever airline you are flying (gate attendant or whatever). The section alluded to regarding stringed instruments states the same thing-carried on stringed instruments must meet the size/weight requirements of the airlines. All the TSA letter really states is that (bagpipes and saxophones aside) musical instruments are not weapons of mass destruction but are a little on the delicate side. Of course this is all for domestic US flights and non-US airlines will have their own policies as well as the country being traveled to.
Carrying Instruments Through Screening Checkpoints: You may carry one (1) musical instrument in addition to 1 carry-on and 1 personal item through the screening checkpoint. This is a TSA Screening Policy. Airlines may or may not allow the additional carry-on item on their aircraft. Please check with your airline before you arrive at the airport. Security officers must x-ray or physically screen your instrument before it can be transported on an aircraft. Security officers will handle musical instruments very carefully and will allow you to be as involved as possible in any physical screening. If security officers cannot clear the instrument through the security checkpoint as a carry-on item, you should transport the instrument and checked baggage instead. The Jack Attack! _______________________________________________ post: horn@music.memphis.edu unsubscribe or set options at http://music2.memphis.edu/mailman/options/horn/archive%40jab.org
