AFM Applauds DOT Release of FAA Reauthorization Act of 2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 31, 2014
CONTACT: Antoinette Follett
(315) 422-4488 ext. 104
afollett@bentley-hall.com
New York, NY—December 30, 2014 the US Department of Transportation (DOT) released the long-awaited final administrative rule which fully implements Section 403 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2012 – the law authorizing musical instruments as carry-on baggage onboard US air carriers. This historic accomplishment was led by the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada and made possible through efforts by several longtime AFM allies in Congress, as well as AFM Local 161-710 (Washington, DC) officers and rank and file members. The AFM was also assisted by the Department of Professional Employees, AFL-CIO, and by other music industry partners.

During the past year, the DOT has been engaged in dialogue with musicians of the AFM, as well as representatives of airlines and industry associations, to address the difficulties musicians face when traveling by air with musical instruments. Airlines are now required to allow small musical instruments, such as a violin or guitar, to be carried into the cabin and stowed in approved stowage spaces, if available, and/or under the seat.

“We applaud the efforts of Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and our AFM allies in Congress for the new administrative ruling on the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2012,” states AFM International President Ray Hair. “For many years, AFM members have been subject to very arbitrary and contradictory size and weight requirements imposed by each airline for musical instruments that are carried on board the airplane or checked as baggage. Airlines will now follow a consistent policy for all musicians traveling with instruments.”

The airlines are now required to train air crews, gate agents, counter agents, and baggage personnel concerning appropriate procedures necessary to comply with all FAA musical instrument transportation policies. The full ruling can be accessed at: http://www.dot.gov/airconsumer/final-rule-musical-instruments.