>>>>Acoustic guitars don't fly particularlly well. Even in a pressurized cabin there's danger to the wood on the instruments face splitting. Unpressurized is worse.
>>>
>>>hey, we can´t hurt a guitar. That would be a heresy. :)
>>>Whil could provide you with an acoustic guitar, huh... <s>
>>
>>I don't know how Villa-Lobos would sound on a non-classical guitar, but I'd give it a shot.< g >
>
>George;
>
>When I played flamenco guitar professionally I would fly with my guitar in the luggage compartment. This was 35-40 years ago and the airline industry was very different. I used a normal guitar case and wrapped my guitar in silk (to prevent sudden temperature/humidity variations). I did not de-tune the instrument and never had a problem. This was the technique used by all professionals I knew at that time.
>
>Today they sell cases specifically used to transport guitars on airplanes. They cost about $700 or more and are built like tanks. They also suggest de-tuning your guitar to prevent problems- like your bridge pulling off, as well as using a humidifier to prevent the wood from splitting. It is amazing the things you get away with when you are young and ignorant!

My classical is a Martin, which, of course, came with a hard shell case. The recommend stuffing the case with newspaper if the instrument is going to fly in the baggage compartment and de-tuned. They don't recommend it going baggage if it can be brought on board.

I know a story, however, regarding the Classical Guitarist/Lautinist Julian Bream. The story is about 35 years old. Anyway, he was flying with his guitar in the passenger compartment, and, sure enough, the face split.

It took 9 months from the time I ordered my instrument until I got it. I ain't taking any chances.< s >

>Just watch out for those steel strings – they treat your fingertips just like a wire cheese cutter. Did you ever notice that the fingers of guitar players who use steel string finger picking style, become shorter as time passes? :)

I have a steel string Martin as well as the classical. I know what you mean.:-)

>
>You are welcome to use any of my classical or flamenco guitars. About one third of our living room wall is filled with guitars. If you need electric’s (acoustic, jazz, rock) our son will help you out. His instruments are next to mine.
>
>Tom

You coming to Whilfest?