Posted by Aubrey Foard on June 10, 2002 at 22:46:03:
In Reply to: Flying again posted by Matt on June 10, 2002 at 15:23:26:
Hi,
If it is a rotary valve instrument where the valve section is double braced, you can unscrew the bar and let the valve levers rest down on the tubing. This will give you an extra inch of room should there be impact. Most damage occurs during loading. You might want to mark "fragile - musical instrument" all over the case. The guys who loaded my horn last time saw this and were sure to put it on last (on the way home, they even put it on the freight elevator). If you're really concerned, think about getting a flight case (the Unitech ones go for around $450 at WW&BW). If you can't buy one, ask around. Someone somewhere nearby is sure to have one and probably willing to lend it to you.
Thanks,
Aubrey