Air India’s recent enforcement of a rule mandating passengers to purchase an extra seat for carrying musical instruments like guitars as hand luggage has sparked widespread concern among musicians across India. Previously, most airlines in the country allowed guitars in the cabin without extra costs, a practice still followed by many international and domestic carriers.
Zubin Balaporia, keyboardist of the iconic Indian rock band Indus Creed, voiced his frustration on social media. He criticized the airline’s policy, stating:
“Why does Air India have this new, extremely discriminating policy towards musicians? Earlier, we were allowed to carry a guitar on board. Now, they’re asking musicians to pay for an extra seat for the guitar. This is ridiculous. Indigo still allows guitars on board. Come on, Air India – Tata Group, why adopt such a mercenary attitude? Surely, you help promote the arts. Have a heart and regain your soul.”
Balaporia’s sentiments were echoed by Indus Creed guitarist Mahesh Tinaikar, who called the policy arbitrary and detrimental to musicians:
“For years, we had no problem carrying our guitars on board. Now, Air India refuses to allow musical instruments unless the passenger buys a separate seat for them. Many musicians struggle to make a living and cannot afford such expenses. Is the bottom line all that matters to Air India?”
When contacted, Air India’s media team pointed to regulations set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and shared a link detailing the policy. The guidelines state that small musical instruments meeting dimension and weight limits can be carried as cabin baggage, but larger items like guitars require an extra seat.
Renowned guitarist Ehsaan Noorani, part of the Bollywood composer trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, highlighted the challenges this rule poses, especially for frequent travelers. He explained:
“While we use flight cases for long-distance travel, many musicians can’t afford such solutions. It’s impractical for most to invest in heavy-duty cases or pay for an extra seat.”
Noorani pointed to a similar issue in the U.S., which was later resolved with a rule allowing musical instruments as cabin baggage, provided they fit within reasonable dimensions. He urged Indian authorities to reconsider:
“A guitar in a soft case can easily fit in the cabin luggage compartment without causing inconvenience. I’ve seen passengers board with more shopping bags than a guitar would take up. This rule should be revised for the benefit of the music community.”
The policy has ignited debate among musicians and artists who argue that such rules discourage creativity and impose unnecessary financial burdens. Many hope for constructive dialogue between the DGCA and airlines to create a balanced policy that accommodates the needs of musicians while maintaining airline regulations.
For now, Air India’s stance has left many musicians seeking alternatives, with hopes that this rule will be revisited and revised to better support the arts.
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