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Carry-On Instruments: The most secure option is to carry your instrument on board. If your instrument (including its case) is within the carry-on size requirements, you can bring it as your carry-on item. Even if it exceeds these dimensions, it may still be carried on if it fits in an overhead bin or under a seat and there is space available when you board the aircraft. Due to Southwest's open seating policy, it's highly recommended to use EarlyBird Check-In or purchase Upgraded Boarding to secure an earlier boarding position and a better chance of finding overhead bin space.
Checked Instruments: If your instrument is too large to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, it must be checked as baggage. Southwest's policy allows a musical instrument to be checked as a substitute for one piece of your standard checked baggage allowance for most bookings. However, it's important to be aware of the size and weight limits. An instrument will be subject to an oversize fee if it is between 62 and 150 inches (outside linear dimensions) and an overweight fee if it weighs between 51 and 165 pounds.
Purchasing an Extra Seat: For large or highly valuable instruments like a cello or a double bass, you can purchase a non-refundable seat for it. This is the safest way to travel with a large instrument as it stays with you in the cabin. The instrument must be placed in a seat closer to the window than any other passenger, fit in the seat, and be secured with a seatbelt. Note that you must sit in the adjacent seat. This option requires you to call the airline to book both your seat and the instrument's seat at the same time.
Proper Packing is Mandatory: Your instrument must be packed in a hard-sided case that is strong enough to protect it under normal baggage handling. If you use a soft-sided case, Southwest will transport the item with a "limited release of liability." This means the airline is not responsible for any damage that occurs during handling.
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Prepare in Advance: The most important step is to prepare your instrument at home. Loosen the strings on stringed instruments to reduce tension. Pack the instrument securely in a hard-sided case, adding extra padding inside to prevent movement.
Arrive Early at the Airport: Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This gives you ample time to check in your instrument, pay any necessary fees, and proceed through security without feeling rushed.
Go to the Ticket Counter: If you are checking your instrument, head directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Verbally and clearly declare that you are checking a musical instrument.
Present Your Instrument: Present your instrument case for inspection and weighing. The agent will confirm that it meets the size and weight limits. If the instrument is oversized or overweight, you will be asked to pay the applicable fees at this time.
Tag Your Item: The agent will place a luggage tag on your instrument case. They may also apply a "fragile" or "limited release of liability" tag. It is a good idea to also attach your own contact information to the case.
Proceed to the Oversized Baggage Drop: Because of its size, a large musical instrument case will not be accepted on the standard baggage carousel. The agent will direct you to a special oversized baggage drop-off area where you will place your bag.
For Carry-On: If you intend to carry on your instrument, it is a good idea to still have it ready for inspection at the ticket counter in case it does not fit in the overhead bin. You must present the instrument to the gate agent before boarding to ensure there is space in the cabin.
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Q1: Do I have to pay to check my musical instrument?
A1: A musical instrument can be checked in place of one of your two free checked bags. If the instrument is oversized or overweight, additional fees will apply.
Q2: Can I carry a guitar on board?
A2: A guitar may be carried on board if it fits in an overhead bin or under a seat and there is space available when you board.
Q3: What are the size limits for a checked instrument?
A3: A checked instrument must not exceed 150 inches in total linear dimensions or weigh more than 165 pounds. Instruments that fall between 62 and 150 inches will incur an oversized fee.
Q4: Can I buy a seat for my cello?
A4: Yes, you can purchase a seat for a large instrument like a cello. You must call the airline to book both your seat and the instrument's seat.
Q5: What happens if I use a soft-sided case for my instrument?
A5: Southwest will transport an instrument in a soft-sided case with a "limited release of liability," meaning they are not responsible for any damage that occurs during handling.
Q6: What is the check-in deadline for an instrument?
A6: The standard check-in deadlines apply, but due to the specialized procedures, it is highly recommended that you arrive at least two hours early.
Q7: Can a phone agent assist with a last-minute flight change?
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Q8: Do I have to declare my musical instrument at check-in?
A8: Yes, you should verbally declare that you are checking a musical instrument so that the agent can ensure all regulations are met.
Q9: What about my bow? Can I put that in my carry-on?
A9: A bow can be checked with the instrument or carried on board as long as it fits in a proper case or covering.
Q10: Can a small instrument count as my personal item?
A10: A small instrument can count as your personal item if it fits under the seat in front of you and is within the size limitations.
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