Quick Answer
✅ Yes. TSA allows cellos in both carry-on and checked luggage.
✈️ Due to their size, most airlines require you to either purchase a seat for a cello or check it as oversize luggage.
⚠️ Cellos rarely fit in overhead bins, even in compact cases.
Details
- Carry-on:
- Cellos are too large for overhead bins.
- Most airlines require purchasing a dedicated seat if you want the cello in the cabin.
- Secure it upright in the seat with a seatbelt extension.
- Checked luggage:
- Allowed but risky — cargo holds can damage wooden instruments.
- If checking, use a reinforced hard case.
- Oversize and overweight fees may apply.
- Buying a seat:
- The most common method for transporting a cello safely.
- Airlines allow seat purchase under “cabin baggage” or “extra seat” rules.
- International flights:
- Policies differ; some airlines mandate seat purchase for large string instruments.
TSA Cello Rules Summary
| Item Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Cello | ⚠️ Only with purchased seat | ✅ Allowed (oversize) |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Overhead bins: Cellos will not fit in standard cabin storage.
- ✈️ Fees: Expect oversize/overweight charges if checked.
- ✈️ Damage risk: Cargo conditions (temperature/pressure) may damage the instrument — always prefer cabin seat purchase.
- ✈️ Booking tip: Reserve the cello seat at the same time as your ticket to avoid issues.