EU Reaches Provisional Agreement on Rules for Musical Instruments on Planes
The European Parliament and the Council have reached a tentative agreement aimed at easing air travel with musical instruments, following nearly 15 years of advocacy by the International Federation of Musicians and Pearle* Live Performance Europe. The regulation mandates that airlines clearly outline cabin baggage restrictions on their websites, including guidelines for transporting delicate instruments. Instruments that fit in overhead compartments or under seats can now be carried on as part of a passenger's belongings. Benoît Machuel of FIM remarked on the advancements made since 2014, while Anita Debaere of Pearle* emphasized the importance of ensuring effective enforcement of these new provisions.
Key facts
- Provisional agreement revised by European Parliament and Council after nearly 15 years of lobbying
- Airlines must clearly indicate allowed cabin baggage dimensions on websites and platforms
- Musical instruments allowed in cabin if safely stowed in baggage compartment or under seat
- Instruments count as part of unchecked baggage allowance; additional hand baggage may be allowed for a fee
- Oversized instruments may require a second fare for an adjacent seat, instrument on window seat
- Heated cargo hold available for instruments when requested and space permits
- Benoît Machuel (FIM) says text confirms progress from 2014 and supports musician mobility
- Anita Debaere (Pearle*) calls for effective implementation with clear improvements
Entities
Institutions
- European Parliament
- Council of the European Union
- International Federation of Musicians (FIM)
- Pearle* Live Performance Europe
Locations
- European Union