I just came back from Europe with an expensive instrument in tow. There was no problem carrying in on board. The security people just checked it thoroughly (as they should), and I was allowed to bring it on the plane. It's not reasonable to check in instruments. They are too delicate.
"I just came back from Europe with an expensive instrument in tow. There was no problem carrying in on board."
Yeah, the only time I played in Europe, everyone carried their instruments, but that was pre 9/11. The only problem I had was in Germany. The customs guy asked me why I didn't play a German oboe after looking in the case.