Flying with a Besson Hard Case

[Anorak-Horn]

Sorry, that wasn't clear at all.

I was thinking about getting something cut to size for inside the bell, like black packaging foam in audio equipment cases. It would stick out the top slightly to wedge against the case lining.

[davewerden]

I was thinking about getting something cut to size for inside the bell, like black packaging foam in audio equipment cases. It would stick out the top slightly to wedge against the case lining.

That will slightly enhance your protection. However, the drawback of soft foam is that it's...well, soft. If the horn is dropped on the bell end the dynamic weight of the horn become much greater and it will probably compress the foam and still contact the case. However, by then you have slowed it down, which is a good thing. If you cut it oversize so it is really compressed to fit in place, then TSA may not be able to put it back in correctly if they inspect.

The preferred solution is something firm like Styrofoam (there are probably many other products I'm not aware of) that is shaped like the inside of your bell, but sticks out an additional inch or so (as much as the case will allow easily). That won't compress as much, it's very light, and it would be easy for TSA to reinsert it. The hard form spreads the impact out around the circumference of the bell throat, which is quite strong in this setting. But this type of form is tough to shape neatly! You do NOT want stray pieces left from your cutting floating around in your bell. They may find their way upstream and cause mischief.

[Anorak-Horn]

Thanks Dave. All of this has been fantastic help.

[superted]

I've flown with Besson cases many times. I use t-shirts, undies and socks to pack out the case to minimise any movement the horn can have inside the case.

Luggage strap is recommended, as is locking the case.

[superted]

Also the area where I have got dents in my euph, is the nuckles of the tubing just coming out of the valves on the front of the instrument.

[Anorak-Horn]

Cheers Superted. Much appreciated!