Flying with a Cello

The Problem

Why flying with a Cello isn't simple

A cello doesn't fit in the overhead bin. And most booking engines have no option for "extra seat for instrument." The result: surprise fees at the gate, heated arguments during boarding — or a cello in the cargo hold, where temperature and pressure fluctuate uncontrollably. Every airline has its own rules, its own terminology (CBBG, EXST, Cabin Baggage), its own booking channels. What's bookable online at one airline requires a phone call at the next. And what applied yesterday may change tomorrow. This guide brings order to the chaos.

Basic Rule

Cello — cabin or cargo?

A cello is too large for the overhead bin but small enough for an aircraft seat. That's why many airlines offer the option to book an extra seat — the cello travels strapped in next to you in the cabin. This is the safest option: no cargo hold, no extreme temperature swings, no risk from baggage handling. The catch: not every airline offers this, and the booking process is rarely self-explanatory. Basic rule: if the airline allows an extra seat, book it. Always. The cello in the cargo hold is Plan B, not Plan A.

Airline Comparison · As of July 2026

Cello — which airline allows what?

Information without guarantee. Airlines change their policies regularly. Always verify directly with the airline before booking.

Step by Step

How to book correctly

1. Check the airline policy

   Before booking: Check the airline's website for extra seat options for instruments. Look for terms like "musical instrument," "Extra Seat," "CBBG," or "EXST." Not every airline lists this prominently.

2. Find your flight (without extra seat)

   Search for your desired flight first and note the date, route, and flight number. Don't book yet — unless the airline allows extra seat booking directly online (e.g., easyJet).

3. Book the extra seat

   For most airlines: Call the Service Center with the flight number, date, your name, and the request for an extra seat for a musical instrument. Say explicitly "Cello, hard case, approx. 130 cm." Get the booking confirmation emailed to you.

4. Mind the seat selection

   A window seat is ideal — the cello is protected against the cabin wall. Some airlines assign this automatically. Ask if you can get the window and middle seat together.

5. Print the confirmation

   Print the booking confirmation showing the extra seat notation, or save it as a PDF on your phone. Discussions at the gate are common — the confirmation is your proof.

6. At the airport: Arrive early

   Be at the airport at least 2.5 hours before departure. Go directly to the check-in counter (not the kiosk). Show the confirmation and get a boarding pass for the extra seat.

Packing & Protection

Case, Padding, Preparation

A cello on a plane needs a hard case — no exceptions. Soft cases don't provide adequate protection, even in the cabin. Recommended cases: BAM Hightech (lightweight, sturdy, excellent protection), Gewa Air (superb for air travel, low weight), or a Tonareli fiberglass case as a more affordable alternative. Important: the case must be securable with the seat belt. Before the flight, retract the endpin, slightly loosen the strings (a half-tone is enough), and cushion the bridge with a soft cloth. Leave tuning pegs slightly loose to accommodate pressure changes. Also pack inside the case: a humidifier (Boveda packs or Dampit) for dry cabin air and a small hygrometer to monitor humidity levels.

Checklist

Before the flight

• Airline policy checked and extra seat confirmed
• Booking confirmation with EXST/CBBG notation saved
• Hard case: latches checked, cello securely padded
• Strings slightly loosened, endpin retracted
• Humidifier and hygrometer inside the case
• Copy of instrument insurance readily available
• At the airport 2.5 hours before departure
• Boarding pass for extra seat collected at the counter

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a cello on Ryanair in the cabin?

No. Ryanair does not allow instruments on an extra seat and no oversized hand luggage in the cabin. A cello must be checked as special baggage at Ryanair and travels in the cargo hold. Given the risks to the instrument, we recommend choosing a different airline.

How do I book an extra seat for my cello?

It depends on the airline. At easyJet, you can do it directly online via the 'Extra CBBG' option. At Lufthansa, SWISS, KLM, and most other airlines, you need to call the Service Center and book an EXST (Extra Seat). Online booking of an extra seat is not possible with these airlines. Tip: always mention 'musical instrument, cello, hard case' — it speeds up the process.

How much does an extra seat for a cello cost?

Typically the regular seat price of the booked fare class — the same amount you pay for your own seat. Taxes and fees may vary. Some airlines waive airport tax on the extra seat, others don't. To be safe, budget for the full ticket price.

Do I need a special case?

Yes, a hard case is mandatory — both for the cabin and the cargo hold. Airlines require the instrument to be transported with protection. A fiberglass or carbon hard case (e.g., BAM Hightech, Gewa Air) is ideal: lightweight, sturdy, and fits on an aircraft seat.

What if there are problems at the gate?

With a written booking confirmation (EXST/CBBG on the ticket), you're covered. Show the confirmation to gate staff. If there are still issues, calmly ask for the Duty Manager. In the EU, Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004 protects you from arbitrary denial of boarding if you've booked correctly.

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