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With only laptop-sized bags allowed on board planes, cellists, double bassists and other musicians are the latest victims of the terror alert.

Often musicians with large instruments buy separate tickets for ensure they are transported safely, but even this option is now not open.

Players of smaller instruments - such as violins which can be extremely delicate and valuable - are also facing problems, especially as insurance policies often demand that owners are not parted from their instruments.

Chief conductor of the Bolshoi Theatre, Alexander Vedernikov, described putting instruments with luggage in the hold as 'unacceptable'.

He told Russia's RIA-Novosti news agency: 'I saw two violins being checked in as luggage, which is unacceptable.'

Some Russian musicians from the Bolshoi decided to return home by train after their season at London's Royal Opera House ended this month.

John Feaver, marketing controller for Allianz Cornhill Musical Insurance, said: 'Problems arise for musicians studying abroad or those travelling professionally for foreign concerts and tours. Having to turn down jobs or to cancel at the last minute will obviously have an adverse effect on their income.'

It is expected current restriction will be lifted in the next few months, but in the meantime musical travellers are urged to pack instruments in a robust and lockable case, ensure it is properly packed and check for and report any damage immediately an instrument is off the luggage carousel.


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