Bert: you make me laugh so much! I'd love to've been there to see any of those scenarios.

I just checked with my dad about flying, as he used to work on Amchitka, in the Aleutian Island and always took his instruments. He was always able to carry an instrument aboard. said he'd take the resonator off his banjo and put it in his suitcase. That way the banjo would fit under the seat, as did the fiddle in its case. BUT, he also said he thinks there was more leg room back then.

As for the strings: he said if you did anything it would be to loosen them, but he never did, just left them tuned up. Of course, he entertained the cabin crew and other passengers a lot, too, which, if you offer, might just help get your guitar on! The Alaskan Airlines people esp. enjoyed seeing ole' Sparky come aboard because they knew it meant good music.

Good luck,

kat