Air transport of musical instruments, particularly cellos, often leads to frustration among musicians due to the instruments' sizes which exceed hand luggage requirements. When classified as dangerous items, musicians are compelled to store their valuable instruments in the cargo hold. This practice raises concerns regarding exposure to extreme temperatures, condensation, and physical damage that could occur due to the rough handling of luggage. The risks associated with transporting fragile and valuable instruments such as a multi-million-dollar Stradivarius are significant; indeed, a damaged suitcase is easily replaced compared to a broken instrument.

In many cases, these high-value instruments are not just personal possessions but rather on loan from banks, private individuals, or foundations. These loans typically come with strict contracts that prohibit transporting the instruments in the cargo hold. Despite this, airlines often dispute these regulations, leading to conflicts between musicians and airline policies. The resistance from fellow passengers also poses additional challenges during flights, as their understanding and compassion for the musicians' situation can vary.

For instance, an anecdote is shared about a string quartet flying from New York to Washington two weeks after the September 11 attacks, highlighting the tensions musicians face. This scenario underscores the broader issue within the aviation industry regarding the treatment of musical instruments during transit, illustrating a need for better policies and accommodations for musicians traveling with their instruments.