Traveling Musicians and airport security

[IcemanLE@xxxxxxx]

Last week, I flew from Orlando to Detroit and back with my full set of 
harmonicas, effects box,  mic, cords, mixer in a small metal case and organ module.

The larger items were packed in a large suitcase. The smaller items were 
carry on in a backpack and small briefcase.

I put a note in my suitcase stating that enclosed was music equipment. 
Because of the mixer and all the cords, an employee of the airline told me that the 
suitcase would definitely be opened and examined after x-ray. The carry on 
luggage was all pulled to the side at the security check point and examined. When 
the guard called out "Musical Equipment" to his superior, everything was 
closed up and allowed to pass. 

The process added another 5 minutes to my boarding time. The way to best 
expedite this situation is to allow the security to do what they do and comply 
with their requests, answering only when asked a question. Don't start 
volunteering information, as this throws off their work rhythm and confuses them, 
causing more delay.

The Iceman