Though not every band can travel like Led Zeppelin did in their heyday, some gigs do require air transport. So, when a flight to your next show is in the cards, do try to be aware of the following scenario, faced by an untold multitude of guitarists before you:
You're told that your guitar is not an acceptable carry-on item, so you check it in, only to discover upon its return that it's been handled a bit roughly, or - in more serious cases - sustained major damage while in transport.
If you're planning on flying with your guitar in the near future, and desperately want to avoid this situation, it's worth keeping in mind that in the United States, your right to carry your guitar on board with you is protected by law.
Section 403 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, signed into law by former president Barack Obama, requires that all U.S. airlines accept musical instruments as carry-on or checked baggage, provided certain requirements are met.
In December 2014, the law was amended by the U.S. Department of Transportation to require that each U.S. airline allow passengers to carry on and stow in the cabin a "small musical instrument, such as a violin or a guitar."
So, if you're flying on an American based airline, you need not suffer through recurring nightmares of your precious guitar being tossed haphazardly around! Though, of course be sure to check the small print of your airline's fare regulations to determine whether or not you'll be required to pay for the privilege.
* This article was originally published here
No comments:
Post a Comment