Change in Flybe’s Musical Instruments on Planes Policy

The MU was disappointed to learn that Flybe’s Musical Instrument Policy has recently been updated, to the detriment of musicians travelling with their instruments.

Published: 16 December 2019 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM

Photo of baggage being loaded into a place — If a musical instrument arrives damaged the musician is left unable to work. Photo credit: Shutter stock

Flybe’s new policy seems to mean that violins and other such instruments will only be allowed in if they are the size and shape of a small suitcase.

This decision demonstrates a lack of understanding of our members and their instruments. If a musical instrument arrives damaged, a musician can be left unable to work.

The MU has written to Flybe with their concerns, and to ask why this decision has been made. Members will be updated in due course.

Read further advice on travelling with an instrument from the MU.

See all news

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

Get public liability insurance for musicians
Access expert legal support
Be represented in your profession
Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Continue reading

Jacob Collier performing at the launch event.

BBC Launches Get Singing — a New Nationwide Music Education Initiative

MU members who lead singing with 11–14-year-olds are encouraged to investigate a new range of resources on the BBC Bitesize website, with more content to be added over the next three years.

Published: 27 January 2026

Tribute to Derek Kimber

Derek Kimber, a cornet and trumpet player whose talent spanned jazz bands, big bands and community events across the West Country, passed away on 30 November 2025. He was a dedicated member of the Musicians’ Union, having joined in 1968.

Published: 27 January 2026

Liverpool Sound City to Implement Access Riders Following MU-Led Accessibility Panel

Liverpool Sound City has announced it will introduce Access Riders for all artists and speakers at its 2026 festival, following an MU-led disability access panel and ongoing collaboration with the Union.

Published: 27 January 2026

Afternoon shot of Liverpool's Cavern Quarter with bars and music venues lit up.

MU Welcomes Major Regional Creative Industries Funding Boost

The MU welcomes a new £27 million government funding package, with regions across the UK invited to bid for investment aimed at strengthening creative industry clusters and building on Liverpool City Region’s success in music innovation and growth.

Published: 26 January 2026

Back of a women playing acoustic guitar on an outdoor stage.

MU Responds to New Report on Women’s Experiences of Sexual Violence and Harassment in Scottish Folk Music

A new report has been published by researchers at the Scottish Centre for Crime and Justice Research at the University of Glasgow, representing the largest evidence base on harassment within Scottish Folk Music.

Published: 22 January 2026

All news and features

Cookies on Musicians' Union

Use your voice

Popular searches

Change in Flybe’s Musical Instruments on Planes Policy

Get MU membership today

Explore our member services

Continue reading

BBC Launches Get Singing — a New Nationwide Music Education Initiative

Tribute to Derek Kimber

Liverpool Sound City to Implement Access Riders Following MU-Led Accessibility Panel

MU Welcomes Major Regional Creative Industries Funding Boost

MU Responds to New Report on Women’s Experiences of Sexual Violence and Harassment in Scottish Folk Music