"Are you flying with your musical instrument this summer? Knowing the rules for air travel can make all the difference." –Conversations In Advocacy #57

Summer is the season where musician's hit the road. Whether for tour, a flyaway one-off gig, a destination studio session or even a vacation, you can bet any serious player will need to bring their instrument along for the journey. While it has traditionally been hard to know how to travel safely with your crucial companion, the Recording Academy is here to help. 

Thankfully, the Recording Academy and its members have not only helped secure important regulations to help musicians travel with instruments, they've also laid out a step-by-step resource for making a trip safely and securely. From what to know when booking a flight, to what to do at the gate, to handling any issues once you land, these helpful instrument travel tips have got you covered.

More good news for musicians on the go: American Airlines recently announced they've eliminated oversize bag fees for music equipment, which the airline hopes will be "music to the ears of musicians who fly on American," according to a statement. The new policy went into effect May 21 and covers all instruments up to the maximum allowed dimensions and within the 50-lb. weight requirement.

Air travel can be a hectic experience, so be sure you're ready with the rules in hand. Before you travel, print out this copy of the Department of Transportation's Final Rule regarding Carriage Of Musical Instruments. Keep it with you for easy reference if you encounter an airline employee who is unfamiliar with the rules.

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"What's really great," says renowned violinist Rachel Barton Pine says, "you can go to [Recording Academy's Advocacy page}and right there you can print out so you can print out the current federal regulation and have it with you at all times in your instrument case, so you can whip it out and say, 'hey, here's the regulation, and these are what my rights are, and I need to get to my rehearsal, so please let me and my better half on board."

So whether you're playing at a summer festival or just keeping your chops up while you visit family and friends, knowing how to get your instrument to your destination can make all the difference.

You Lobbied, They Listened: New Travel Regulations Take Flight For Musical Instruments