Guide

The 5 Best Airlines for Musicians with Instruments [2026]

July 10, 2026

Not every cheap airline is good for musicians. What matters is: Can I safely bring my instrument into the cabin? How easy is the booking? And what happens when questions arise at the gate?

Our ranking is based on three criteria: extra seat availability, booking convenience, and real-world experience.

1. easyJet — The Gold Standard for Cabin Instruments

easyJet makes it easiest for musicians. The CBBG seat (Cabin Baggage) can be booked directly online — no phone call, no service center, no travel agency. The instrument travels in a hard case, strapped into the neighboring seat.

  • Extra seat: Yes (CBBG)
  • Booking method: Online in the booking flow
  • Cost: Regular seat price
  • Advantage: The only major airline with full online booking

2. KLM — Straightforward and Transparent

KLM allows instruments as Cabin Baggage on an extra seat. Booking is through the Service Center, but the process is clearly documented and staff are well-trained.

  • Extra seat: Yes (CBBG)
  • Booking method: Service Center
  • Max weight: 75 kg including case
  • Advantage: Clear rules, friendly service

3. Lufthansa — Reliable, But Phone-Only

Lufthansa offers the EXST (Extra Seat) for instruments. Booking is only possible via the Service Center — not online. But once the EXST is confirmed, the process runs smoothly.

  • Extra seat: Yes (EXST)
  • Booking method: Service Center (phone)
  • Max dimensions: 130 cm height, 45 kg
  • Advantage: Also applies to SWISS, Austrian, Eurowings (Lufthansa Group)

4. British Airways — Good, But Subject to Availability

British Airways allows extra seats for instruments, but only subject to availability. Book by phone; window seats are preferentially assigned.

  • Extra seat: Yes (subject to availability)
  • Booking method: Phone
  • Advantage: Good network to UK and long-haul

5. Air France — Solid Option with Group Rates

Air France offers EXST for instruments. Booking is through the Service Center. Particularly interesting for group travel, as Air France offers good group rates.

  • Extra seat: Yes (EXST)
  • Booking method: Service Center
  • Advantage: Good network to Southern Europe and international

Airlines That DON’T Work

  • Ryanair: No extra seat, no cabin option for large instruments
  • Wizz Air: No extra seat possible

Bottom Line

The best airline for musicians is the one where booking an extra seat is simple and reliable. easyJet leads with the only fully online booking process. Lufthansa Group and KLM are solid alternatives with phone booking.

Find detailed airline policies per instrument in our Instrument Guides.

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