Well, it's stupid. I wouldn't let my hi-priced fiddle out of my sight, either. I've never minded checking Fender Gtars though, they're built like canoe paddles. If we'd just...I don't know, maybe...PROFILE, and make Muslims check their "centuries old" fiddles, we'd be safe enough.
Nor would I. It's not just stupid not to let your old "fiddle" out of your sight, it's irresponsible. That precious carved wood is yours for your lifetime, but it will live after you. You are its shepard. Take good care. Which puts musicians between a rock and a hard place. I guess I'd rather ship it a day ahead in a solid crate via Fedex with max insurance than leave it in the hold of a plane.