Here is how Southwest Airlines handles guitars

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P-Nutz

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Historically, the "Black Betty" of the title may refer to the nickname given to a number of objects: a bottle of whiskey, a whip, or a penitentiary transfer wagon.

Bam-ba-lam!
 

Midgetje94

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@SPUDCASTER I don’t have a Facebook. I could still see it? Basically it’s a grounds crewman picking up the case acting like he’s playing it. Honestly I’d just laugh assuming he set it down and didn’t throw it 🤣

Fun fact. My dad used to work for SWA HQ in Dallas. In the Data buildings. One of the most family friendly jobs I’ve ever seen. If I didn’t live so far away, without a doubt I’d be working there. I remember SO many Halloween days up there. Staff dresses up and hands out candy. They’d rent out six flags for Christmas parties. Chili cook offs. So much that they encourage families to do. Much love for SWA
 

FenderAndLester

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I dunno why people still check their guitars a baggage....

US DEPT of Transportation

Transport of Small Instruments as Carry-On Baggage:​

This rule requires that carriers must allow a passenger to carry into the cabin and stow a small musical instrument, such a violin or a guitar, in a suitable baggage compartment, such as the overhead bin or under the seats in accordance with FAA safety regulations.
 

Midgetje94

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I dunno why people still check their guitars a baggage....

US DEPT of Transportation

Transport of Small Instruments as Carry-On Baggage:​

This rule requires that carriers must allow a passenger to carry into the cabin and stow a small musical instrument, such a violin or a guitar, in a suitable baggage compartment, such as the overhead bin or under the seats in accordance with FAA safety regulations.
I’ve found that most flight attendants, if asked, will gladly stow your guitar with their bags, flight crews have their own area. 1. Less stuff around it, 2. Pretty darn secure, 3. They are usually good about it partially a guitar case takes up a good amount of space in the overheads. So it’s easier for everyone.

When I used to fly a lot more (mostly military, to and from base and home to visit) I’d often keep giftcards on me. Little $15 to various food places or Starbucks. And give them to flight attendants who actually make an effort. I know they are often away from home more than they would like, long hours, often stuck in airports. So a little thank you gesture to them and something they can use on their next layover.

$15-30 a flight is cheaper than checking a guitar, much better piece of mind.
 

jackal

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Way back I watched my guitar as it fell off the baggage cart and bounced down the taxiway. When I was able to get to it, of course the first thing I did was open the case and check it. Small scratch on the outside of the case, guitar inside unharmed. Those old Gibson hardshell cases were well worth the money.
 

oregomike

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Me too. My Baby Taylor flies Southwest a lot.
I mainly travel with my 1929 00, but I've even had my J-45 in there, and was relieved that there was still room for a couple more bags, so I didn't feel liike a jerk taking up the whole thing.
 

Grandfunkfan

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Delta let's you keep it where the flight attendants hang out. It's easier for them instead of taking up space in the overhead.
 
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