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Are you a musician planning to travel with your guitar on American Airlines? You might be wondering whether you can bring it on board as a carry-on item or if you need to check it in. In this article, we’ll explore American Airlines’ policy on guitars as carry-on items and provide you with all the information you need to travel with your instrument stress-free.
As a guitar player, your instrument is not just a piece of luggage – it’s an extension of yourself. That’s why it’s essential to understand the airline’s rules and regulations regarding musical instruments. Whether you’re flying for a gig, a recording session, or just a weekend getaway, knowing what to expect will help you plan your trip and avoid any unwanted surprises at the airport. Let’s dive in!
Contents
- Does American Airlines Allow Guitars as Carry On?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is American Airlines’ policy on musical instruments as carry-on items?
- What are the size limits for carry-on items on American Airlines?
- Can guitars be carried on American Airlines flights?
- Is there a fee for carrying a guitar on American Airlines?
- What precautions should I take when carrying my guitar as a carry-on item on American Airlines?
- How strict is American Airlines with carry on size?
- How To Print A Boarding Pass For United Airlines?
- Are American Airline Tickets Cheaper At The Airport?
- How To Sign Up For American Airlines Frequent Flyer?
Does American Airlines Allow Guitars as Carry On?
If you are a musician or music enthusiast and planning to travel with your guitar, you might be wondering if American Airlines allows it as a carry-on item. In this article, we will explore whether American Airlines allows guitars as carry-on items or not and what are the guidelines you need to follow.
Carry-On Policy for American Airlines
American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on item and one personal item on board. A carry-on item must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, while a personal item must fit under the seat. American Airlines also has size and weight restrictions for both carry-on and personal items.
Size Restrictions for Carry-On and Personal Items
The maximum size allowed for a carry-on item is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. The maximum size allowed for a personal item is 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm), including handles and wheels.
Weight Restrictions for Carry-On and Personal Items
The maximum weight allowed for a carry-on item is 40 pounds (18 kg), while the maximum weight allowed for a personal item is 25 pounds (11 kg).
Guitars as Carry-On Items on American Airlines
American Airlines allows guitars as carry-on items, but they must follow the size and weight restrictions mentioned above. Additionally, the guitar must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. American Airlines recommends that you purchase a seat for your guitar if it exceeds the carry-on size limits.
Benefits of Carrying Guitars as Carry-On Items
Carrying your guitar as a carry-on item has several benefits. Firstly, you can keep your guitar safe with you throughout the journey. Secondly, you do not have to worry about your guitar getting damaged or lost in checked baggage. Lastly, some airlines allow you to play your guitar during the flight if no inconvenience is caused to other passengers.
What if Your Guitar Exceeds the Carry-On Size Limit?
If your guitar exceeds the carry-on size limit, you can still carry it on board by purchasing a seat for it. You will have to contact American Airlines in advance to make the necessary arrangements. The guitar must be properly secured in the seat and cannot block the aisle or emergency exit.
Guitar as Checked Baggage on American Airlines
If you do not want to carry your guitar as a carry-on item, you can check it in as baggage. However, you must follow American Airlines’ guidelines for checked baggage. The maximum size allowed for checked baggage is 62 linear inches (158 cm), including handles and wheels. The maximum weight allowed for checked baggage depends on the fare type and destination.
Benefits of Checking Your Guitar as Baggage
Checking your guitar as baggage has its benefits too. Firstly, you do not have to carry your guitar around the airport, which can be cumbersome. Secondly, you can pack other items along with your guitar in the same suitcase. Lastly, you do not have to worry about carrying your guitar through security.
What are the Risks of Checking Your Guitar as Baggage?
Checking your guitar as baggage has some risks associated with it. Firstly, your guitar is more likely to get damaged or lost in checked baggage. Secondly, you might have to pay an additional fee for checking your guitar as baggage. Lastly, you might have to wait for a long time at the baggage claim area to receive your guitar.
Conclusion: Should You Carry Your Guitar as Carry-On or Check it in?
Whether you should carry your guitar as a carry-on item or check it in depends on your personal preference and situation. If your guitar fits the size and weight restrictions, carrying it as a carry-on item is the best option. However, if your guitar exceeds the carry-on size limit or you have other items to carry, checking it in as baggage might be a better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is American Airlines’ policy on musical instruments as carry-on items?
American Airlines allows musical instruments as carry-on items as long as they fit within the carry-on size limits and can be safely stowed in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. If your instrument is too large to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, you may need to purchase an additional ticket or check it as baggage.
What are the size limits for carry-on items on American Airlines?
The size limits for carry-on items on American Airlines are 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 centimeters, including handles and wheels. If your musical instrument exceeds these dimensions, it may not be allowed as a carry-on item and you will need to check it as baggage.
Can guitars be carried on American Airlines flights?
Yes, guitars can be carried on American Airlines flights as long as they meet the carry-on size limits and can be safely stowed in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. If your guitar exceeds the size limits, you may need to purchase an additional ticket or check it as baggage.
Is there a fee for carrying a guitar on American Airlines?
There is no additional fee for carrying a guitar as a carry-on item on American Airlines as long as it meets the size limits and can be safely stowed in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. However, if your guitar exceeds the size limits, you may need to purchase an additional ticket or check it as baggage, which may incur a fee.
What precautions should I take when carrying my guitar as a carry-on item on American Airlines?
When carrying your guitar as a carry-on item on American Airlines, it is recommended that you pack it in a hard-shell case and loosen the strings to help prevent damage during transport. You should also be prepared to store your guitar in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, and ensure that it is securely stowed to prevent it from shifting or falling during the flight.
How strict is American Airlines with carry on size?
In conclusion, American Airlines does allow guitars as carry-on items, but it’s important to understand the specific guidelines and restrictions. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your guitar makes it safely to your destination and that you don’t run into any unexpected issues during your travels.
It’s always a good idea to double-check with American Airlines before your flight to confirm their policies and any updates or changes. Additionally, it’s important to properly pack and protect your guitar to prevent damage during transportation.
With a little bit of preparation and attention to detail, you can travel with your guitar on American Airlines and enjoy the convenience and ease of having it with you on your trip. Happy travels!
