After facing criticism from musicians and travelers alike, Lufthansa is adjusting its policy on carrying violins and other small musical instruments onboard aircraft. The change comes months after a viral incident involving a professional violinist who was forced to travel with her violin “naked” (outside of its carrying case) because the case was deemed too big for a carry-on item.
The controversy stems from Lufthansa’s strict carry-on baggage rules, which limit cabin items to 55 x 40 x 23 cm and 8 kg. While the airline says instruments can travel in the cabin free of charge if they meet those limits, many standard violin cases exceed the 55 cm length restriction, creating potential conflicts at check-in counters.
In those cases, Lufthansa has historically required musicians to either purchase a second seat for the instrument or check it in the hold, a risky proposition (arguably insane) for delicate and sometimes priceless instruments.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on Live and Let's Fly.
