Orchestras and musicians are reminded to plan carefully for the safe transportation of musical instruments when traveling by plane. While security measures at domestic and international airports have impacted the ability of musicians to transport instruments by air, there are steps you can take to increase the chances of successfully carrying instruments in-cabin without compromising safety.
The February 2012 passage of reauthorization for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) includes a provision to ease air travel for musicians flying with musical instruments. The League will be closely following FAA’s next steps on the new rules, advocating for swift implementation, and updating our “Tips for Traveling Musicians” resource accordingly, which is linked at the bottom of this page. Find the latest news pertinent to travel for musicians in our dedicated news center.
Domestic Travel
U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Updates
TSA Guide to Transporting Musical Instruments
Travel to/from United Kingdom
Updates on UK Airport Restrictions
U.S. Restrictions on Inbound UK Flights
Immediately following the events of September 11, 2001, a national coalition of concerned organizations including the League of American Orchestras, crafted tips for making reservations, packing instruments, and calmly dealing with last-minute problems. In the past several years, the American Federation of Musicians has worked to urge the TSA and major airlines to balance security concerns with the need to carry musical instruments in-cabin.
Updated! Tips for Traveling Musicians
Questions or comments? Please contact Heather Noonan, Vice President for Advocacy,
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