[FA Worldmusic] delta airlines changes policy re: instruments on board

[Ian Menzies]

FYI...

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."