Delta Now Allows Musical Instruments On Board
2007-04-26 12:50:51.710
Story by: Rachael Darmanin

Musicians will no longer have to endure the fear of wondering if their guitar made it (in one-piece, no less) while flying, thanks to Delta Airlines allowing musical instruments on board once again. The American Federation Of Musicians (AFM), the largest organization in the world that represents the interests of musicians, has publicly applauded Delta’s decision and is urging all other airlines to immediately follow suit.

Following 9/11, restrictions on carry-on items were drastically tightened, which caused the AFM to lobby Congress, citing the value of musical instruments and the importance of allowing them on board. Delta’s new policy allows small musical instruments and guitars on board, as well as new extended measurements and weights for check-in bags. Musicians traveling with large instruments will now be able to check any that are under 80
linear inches with a weight limit of 80 pounds.

“We’re pleased that Delta recognized that these instruments are valuable possessions and should be treated that way, and we applaud their decision,” said AFM President Thomas Lee via press release. “Our union now asks the other airlines to take a further step and adopt Delta’s carry-on and checked baggage policies for musical instruments.”