1 Aug 2006 This summer’s terrorist scares have caused the airlines to become much more restrictive about hand luggage, including musical instruments. The restrictions have caused serious problems for early music specialists traveling abroad.
For the latest on airline security in the UK, check:
www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_about/documents/page/dft_about_612280...
For US regulations on musical instruments, check:
www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/editorial_1235.shtm
Here is a letter received from EMA member Peter Bloom, who was traveling in the UK at the time the terrorist plot was uncovered:
Dear Sally [EMA Membership Director Sally Mitchell],
Thanks for getting back to me quickly with good advice during my scramble to get back to the States. Your advice was both useful and comforting. Indeed, I've returned home with instruments (two concert flutes- one gold, the other an early 19th century wooden model) intact, but not without some serious anxiety.
It was about a week before returning home that announcements were made in the UK that absolutely nothing but passport and ticket would be allowed to be carried onto planes to the States. I often fly with my instruments, but have never had to relinquish them to the checked-baggage system, and have no idea how to make certain they're safe in such a case. As you know, even the careful opening of a case and the inspecting and repacking of a professional instrument can be disastrous if attempted by someone unfamiliar with a particular instrument.
I contacted Clarion (my insurance carrier) and they immediately assured me that the instruments would be fully covered if I had to check them. It's reassuring that they're responsive and responsible. On the other hand, I'd be in deep trouble if my primary instrument were lost or damaged.
By the time of my flight passengers were allowed one small carry-on (large enough to accommodate my instruments). Clearing security at Gatwick ( London) took the full 3½ hours I allowed. At London I underwent full security screening including inspection of instruments (twice) and a pat-down (twice). Again, in Newark, after clearing customs, another screening (although I hadn't left a secure area). Fortunately I was allowed to open and handle the instruments myself. Two years ago a Boston security person became hostile when I politely asked her not to open an instrument case upside-down. Serious damage was, somehow, narrowly avoided. I've been lucky.
We're all grateful, of course, for the vigilance of our airport security personnel and keenly aware of the stresses that recent events have placed on struggling airlines and their staffs. As a traveling musician I'm hopeful that our service and labor organizations (AFM, CMA, EMA, etc.), along with insurance providers like Clarion, can work cooperatively with the several airlines and the FAA to find ways to facilitate our travel (with the precious tools of our trade) while maintaining safety and security.
Thanks again and best wishes,
Peter H. Bloom
For the latest on airline security in the UK, check:
www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_about/documents/page/dft_about_612280...
For US regulations on musical instruments, check:
www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/editorial_1235.shtm
Here is a letter received from EMA member Peter Bloom, who was traveling in the UK at the time the terrorist plot was uncovered:
Dear Sally [EMA Membership Director Sally Mitchell],
Thanks for getting back to me quickly with good advice during my scramble to get back to the States. Your advice was both useful and comforting. Indeed, I've returned home with instruments (two concert flutes- one gold, the other an early 19th century wooden model) intact, but not without some serious anxiety.
It was about a week before returning home that announcements were made in the UK that absolutely nothing but passport and ticket would be allowed to be carried onto planes to the States. I often fly with my instruments, but have never had to relinquish them to the checked-baggage system, and have no idea how to make certain they're safe in such a case. As you know, even the careful opening of a case and the inspecting and repacking of a professional instrument can be disastrous if attempted by someone unfamiliar with a particular instrument.
I contacted Clarion (my insurance carrier) and they immediately assured me that the instruments would be fully covered if I had to check them. It's reassuring that they're responsive and responsible. On the other hand, I'd be in deep trouble if my primary instrument were lost or damaged.
By the time of my flight passengers were allowed one small carry-on (large enough to accommodate my instruments). Clearing security at Gatwick ( London) took the full 3½ hours I allowed. At London I underwent full security screening including inspection of instruments (twice) and a pat-down (twice). Again, in Newark, after clearing customs, another screening (although I hadn't left a secure area). Fortunately I was allowed to open and handle the instruments myself. Two years ago a Boston security person became hostile when I politely asked her not to open an instrument case upside-down. Serious damage was, somehow, narrowly avoided. I've been lucky.
We're all grateful, of course, for the vigilance of our airport security personnel and keenly aware of the stresses that recent events have placed on struggling airlines and their staffs. As a traveling musician I'm hopeful that our service and labor organizations (AFM, CMA, EMA, etc.), along with insurance providers like Clarion, can work cooperatively with the several airlines and the FAA to find ways to facilitate our travel (with the precious tools of our trade) while maintaining safety and security.
Thanks again and best wishes,
Peter H. Bloom