Musicians applaud new rule for flying with instruments

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra collaborators Time for Three made headlines last year when two members of the trio posted a YouTube video of themselves playing their violins on the tarmac at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport.

U.S. Airways wouldn’t let them carry the violins onto a connecting flight to Fayetteville, Arkansas.

It was a common problem for musicians, which was remedied at the end of 2014 by a new federal transportation rule. The American Federation of Musicians and other groups applauded the rule, which makes it clear that airlines must allow instruments of certain dimensions as carry-on items. The rule covers violins, and even guitars.

“We are pleased to see action being taken, and we hope the new regulations will reduce the number of recent unfortunate incidents that have plagued musicians attempting to travel with their instruments,” said Gary Gintsling, the symphony’s CEO.