Musical Instruments:
a screener’s guide
Musical instruments are often the cause
of tension at the airport security
checkpoint. Screeners either question the
appropriateness of the carriage of an
instrument inside the aircraft cabin or, if
it is accepted, proceed to examine the
alien article without the care and
attention that the musician expects.
So, Marcia Adair provides an
overview of the problems
encountered and offers some
practical solutions that can diffuse
checkpoint tension and speed
performers on
their way with
their loved ones.
veryone loves music. It makes
E
the world go round, but what
happens when musicians turn
up with their kit at the airport?
The best laid plans often fall
apart and the travel
experience can turn into a battle of wills,
with musicians refusing to allow their
instruments into the hold and airport
personnel threatening to deny them
boarding unless the passenger complies.
In the United States, the Transportation
Security Administration (TSA) regulations
state that:
• Passengers may carry one (1) musical
instrument in addition to 1 carry-on
and 1 personal item through the
screening checkpoint. Airlines may or
16 Register now for FREE instant access to ASI online by visiting www.asi-mag.com October 2009 Aviationsecurityinternational
Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52