[smoothjazztenor]

Hi
I know that this subject has been broadly discussed here.
But I want a separate discussion on the (updated) brands/makes of contoured/shaped tenor cases that have been able to be carried on as hand-luggage, both within USA and internationally.

Hope you guys with the "flying tenors but no pain" experiences can chip in here...

 

[Simon Weiner]

I believe I had a customer tell me that the Winter cases would pass for carry on. I would get measurments and then check with the airline however, everything keeps changing.

 

[Flyguy]

USAir let me carry my J. Winter on board- no questions asked. (Except for "how long have you been playing?")

 

[Selmer's_glu]

Phil Barone (also called "VGV") brand

 

[smoothjazztenor]

Thanks guys...do keep the replies coming...

BTW, anybody with experiences of the new SKB 450 contoured being carried onboard flights? Is it considered "bulky" in comparison to other contoured cases?

 

[eddierich]

I've been able to walk on with a BAM softpack.

 

[smoothjazztenor]

I just read somewhere that more "streamlined" contoured cases have a higher rate of success as carry-ones...

Gary, where are you?

 

[Swampcabbage]

In the past I've used SKB and J WInter. The Walt Johnson seems to have slimmer profile so I would think it would be even easier.

 

[Randall]

I have gotten on with the following over the years:

*Selmer Saxpak ( I do not recommend it as a case)
*SKB
*Hiscox (this one has never been refused)
* although it doesn't fit your criteria, the old Conn black hard cases have usually been no problem to take on board, surprisingly.

 

[andrewbowie]

On a European flight: the latest Hiscox.

 

[nathan61]

The selmer flight case has never been refused. Thanks for posting on this- its a very important topic. In my menory the Walt Johnson tenor cases are quite bulky. Is this true?

 

[Jonathan C.]

A few years ago, I checked my Tenor thinking that the Airlines wouldn't trash it. I got the horn out to play in Orlando for a band competition, and my octave key was bent. I was able to do an on the site repair, but I carried my Hard Selmer Case on. You might try a Protec case.

 

[dohertyjazz]

I take my tenor in my walt johnson case all the time. Only once has a flight attendant told me that it wouldn't fit until I showed her that it did indeed fit - these were on really small planes as well. I have flown internationally without a problem as well.

If i ever absolutely am not able to take it carry on (usually happens when I travel with both tenor and alto and a backpack) I opt to check the horn at the gate. I've yet to have a bad experience with that.

on a side note the w.j's are extremely durable. I was parked on a friend's inclined driveway and the horn fell out when she opened the door :-(. The horn and case were perfectly fine save for a few scuffs on the shell of the case.


EDIT: Just realized you were looking for information on "updated cases". I'm not sure if walt johnsons fall under updated or not. Either way I hope this post helps.

 

[smoothjazztenor]

In some airports, there is a metal "frame" installed near the check-in counters, informing passengers of the dimension-restrictions on carry-on luggages.

I know that the tenor length would way-exceed this "allowed" length.

May I know how do members get through this?

 

[whaler]

1. I have never had a problem with my Berkeley case. 2. Just walk through with it without asking any questions.

 

[Al Stevens]

http://www.afm.org/public/press/042607.php

 

[sambeaux]

I've been using a Wolfpak for the last couple of years (>100 flights) and it's been great. Before that I had a Walt Johnson. Never had a problem with either and that covers A LOT of flights (and trains, buses, and cars too...)

I've found that the best solution is not what kind of case you have (although you definitely won't make it aboard with a coffin...), but how you deal with the flight attendants. You don't want to look like you're trying to sneak the horn aboard, but you also don't have to beg for their blessing nor be indignant about your right to a sax on board. My attitude is designed to project the image of "This is okay, I do this every day, this instrument is how I make my living and as long as you let me on the plane, I'll find a place for it and I won't bother you."

Another helpful hint: if you're traveling with a few other musicians with instruments, go up to the desk agents before they start boarding and politely introduce yourself and tell them who you're playing with. Then ask if you might board early so you can get your instruments tucked away before the rush. Only do this if the agent is not too busy, and it's best if the person who is asking has a lot of FF miles and is a "Gold Elite" member!

 

[14470]

You might try a Protec case.

I have used a countoured Pro Tec for transatlantic flights without problems (so far...touch wood). If you go this way I would get a black one as they appear smaller. Haven't tried the VGV case but am planning to get one for that purpose.

 

[Othello3]

In some airports, there is a metal "frame" installed near the check-in counters, informing passengers of the dimension-restrictions on carry-on luggages.

I know that the tenor length would way-exceed this "allowed" length.

May I know how do members get through this?

I believe the easiest way to get around the allowed length is to ignore it. A good number of people bring all sorts of outrageously big carry-ons (borderline suitcases) on board and no one stops them. I think sambeaux has it right. If you don't make a big deal out of it, no one will care.

 

[fluteloop]

i've been hearing scary rumors this summer, that airlines are getting stricter about letting you carry on horns, and that the place they stop you is not at the gate where you can gate check it, but at security where you have to go back and check it all the way thru. any recent experiences with this?