Bringing musical instruments on SQ

[SQA380-842]

Hi all, I'm considering brining my guitar overseas, I'll be flying Singapore airlines.

A couple of options I think: checked in baggage which I will be using a hard case however this is very heavy. The second option I see but unsure of is brining my guitar as a carry on luggage.

So the question is, does SQ have a policy for passengers brining such items on board as carry on luggage?

[singaporu_kooku]

In general, guitar in a hard case must be checked in and NOT be carried on board. Soft case guitar, however, may be carried as a hand carry subject to space availability.

If you are traveling in first or business class, it should not be an issue. In economy class, if the flight is full and there's no space to store the guitar in the cabin, then it has to be checked in.

You should be able to check with the stations you are depart from, since some are more strict with the hand carry than the others.

[Inflight Sup]

Yes, the policy is:

If it fits in an overhead compartment, and the compartment can be closed securely.

If it fits under the seat in front of you.

Coat closets are meant for: coats & jackets and other soft material that will not damage other pax coats, jackets.

Musicians travel and they check in their guitars,drums,violins,trumpets,cellos
( including vintage instruments )

Overhead compartments are relatively large ( B777,A380,B747 ) and can accomodate a standard 6 string guitar ( electric or otherwise ) packed in soft or hard case. This is provided you are among the first to board the plane.
and do not mind other pax dumping their baggage on top of your guitar ( supposedly not a good idea)

If its a single sector flight ( SIN-BNE or SIN-LON ) the crew might be able to help you stow it in some large closet.. but bear in mind.. there is no warranty that the guitar will return undamaged!

Things get very tricky if its a multiple sector flight: in the process of handing over the flight, the crew may forget mentioning it to their colleagues and it may get offloaded!

There is also no guarantee that flying in first or business will get you guitar space.

My advice? check it in and get it insured... otherwise, buy another one at your destination.

[787]

I brought a violin onboard for a flight from singapore to paris and back.

It was a hard case and I did not encounter any problems as I did not have additional carry on luggage.

Just try to be the first few to board and store the instrument opposite your seat so you can keep an eye on it if other passengers try to stack their luggage on your musical instrument.

A guitar is relatively bigger compared to a violin though.