Musical equipment

A musical instrument in its hard-shell case that weighs no more than 7kgs and doesn’t exceed the maximum dimensions for musical instruments, can be taken as carry-on baggage and must be placed in the overhead locker. The maximum dimension for a musical instrument is 56in = 34in + 13in + 9in.

If its total linear dimensions are 41in or less, then it will be equivalent to a 41in bag, using the carry-on baggage calculation. If its total linear dimensions are between 41in and 56in then it will be considered as equivalent to a 45in bag using the carry-on baggage calculation.

You'll need to measure your musical instrument before arriving at the airport. A small musical instrument, for example, most violins, usually fit within the musical instrument allowance. Larger musical instruments, for example, most guitars, don't fit within the musical instrument allowance and must be checked-in. Alternatively, you can purchase an extra seat and carry it as a bulky item.

We recommend arriving promptly to board your flight to ensure you can place your musical instrument safely in an overhead locker. 

Musicians who are registered members of an eligible musical association can request an additional baggage allowance when travelling on an Australian domestic Qantas or QantasLink flight. You're permitted a total of three (3) pieces of checked baggage per musician, with a weight allowance applicable to your class of travel and Frequent Flyer status.

Eligibility

To be eligible you must:

• Be a current member of an affiliated music association – members of these eligible associations will have received advice of the offer. You'll need to be able to provide proof of membership details at check-in. 
• Be travelling with a musical instrument or equipment.
• Be travelling on an Australian domestic flight operated by Qantas or QantasLink. Note: baggage on flights to/from Lord Howe Island, Mount Hotham and Olympic Dam are subject to specific restrictions.
• Make the request three or more business days before departure by emailing specialhandling@qantas.com.au for the request to be processed. The email must include: your booking reference, musical association name, membership number (for musicians only), and the type of musical instrument or equipment. Our Customer Operations team will confirm your additional baggage allowance approved via email.

Note: APRA members must have their own individual APRA membership to be eligible for the additional allowance.