taking a bass on American Airlines

[bassdood]

I will be taking my bass on an airline for the first time soon, and I was wondering if anyone had any recent experiences with American Airlines, or with flying out of Austin or out of Kansas City, with respect to taking your bass.

I looked on their website, and also called them. From what I can gather, it is somewhat random as to what may happen. If you check it, it can be expensive, and possibly not too safe (w/o a huge ATA case). I have a good SKB molded case (not the rectangular, but the guitar-shaped model).

The best insight I have gotten so far is that it is probably best to attempt to carry it on. If you are lucky, they actually store it in the coat closet inside. If that doesn't work (which is a good chance it won't), they will check it at the gate, where it won't go through as much handling, and there won't be a charge. In that case, it gets checked through to your final destination.

I am trying to imagine going through security with it.

I am not totally sure I should even take it with me. I will be away for a week, and I'd really like to practice while I am gone (and will have some time on my hands). I was also thinking about renting something for five days in KC, but couldn't find much there, especially in terms of not costing a rediculous amount.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

[Pacman]

Rondo music flight cases are 90 bucks. Best investment I've made.

[xgator4u]

They currently allow 1 checked bag, and 1 carry on. Both have size, and weight restrictions. Now they will NOT let you count that as a carry on, because all carry ons must fit in the overhead compartments, or under your seat. It ain't gonna fit in either. That leaves checked, in the belly of the plane. This will work, although that will preclude any actual luggage, unless you can travel light, and carry a couple pairs of drawers in a carry on. They will let you exceed the 1 checked bag, but they charge you heavily for the overage. Not worth it. Good luck.