You might remember a few years ago, a musician named Dave Carroll wrote a song that became a YouTube sensation, called “United Breaks Guitars.”

The inspiration? He was forced to check his guitar and then he watched as baggage handlers tossed it around like, well, luggage, and his instrument was destroyed.

Well, there’s good news for Dave and other traveling musicians out there carrying musical instruments on planes.

The government has finally implemented a rule that requires airlines to let musicians carry their instruments on board.

This rule actually dates back to 2012, but it took this long to go into effect.

However, there is a loophole, and it’s a big one: If there isn’t enough overhead storage space on the plane, you may still have to check the instrument. That’s precisely when you want to pay for earlier boarding to get access to that space.

But don’t expect to stash your cello on board. Oversized musical instruments still have to be checked….OR, you can choose to buy your instrument its own seat on the plane.

For more information, visit the Airlines & Airports Archives.

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