Like you, I've seen it done many times, so must be allowed. I think calling the airline for specifics is the best idea.

Thanks. She called them and Alaska said it would be fine.

Enjoy Kauai!!

Guitars usually fit into the overhead bin and are allowed.

My cello is a different story... I wish I could take it along on our 2 week cruise to SA, but so not happening. Some famous cellos have their own frequent flier miles, lol.

I did have a friend who takes her 17th century viola to Paris for its "tuneups" have trouble with a FA who tried to tell her she had to check it -- uh, no. It almost turned into a major confrontation until the pilot stepped in.

Kauai with a guitar (and a guitar player) sounds so nice.

Thanks for your good wishes, Carol!

I just wanted to report back on our experience. As we boarded the plane, the FA took the guitar and put it in the closet. There was an economy class passenger who had a guitar as well, and it was accommodated in the first class closet. There would have been enough space in the overhead bin. So at least this crew on Alaska was very accommodating.

We are now settled into a beautiful condo overlooking the waves crashing on the shore.

And thanks for your comments, mowmow, Yes, a cello is a different story!

They will require passports to fly too, in the future: http://www.foxnews.com/travel/2013/03/13/musical-instruments-will-get-passports-to-travel/

That is if it's made of endangered animals.

Interesting article - something I''d never thought about. But no animals were harmed in making this guitar, so not an issue.