A viral TikTok video has caused an uproar after appearing to show a baggage handler at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) throwing guitar cases onto the ground.
The footage has been viewed 3.8 million times within six days and prompted concerns about how fragile items are handled during air travel.
The short clip posted by user goyamariacookie apparently shows an airport worker unloading luggage from a cart and tossing multiple guitar cases with force onto the tarmac.
The caption accompanying the video reads, “I hope your guitars are [OK],” as viewers questioned whether the handling was careless, or deliberate.
Federal Guidelines
Airlines in the United States are required to accommodate musical instruments under federal guidelines, though the way they are transported can vary depending on size and passenger choice.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, “Many airlines will allow you to purchase an adjoining seat for your instrument (e.g., if its size exceeds the standard carry-on limit). This is usually known as ‘seat baggage,’ or sometimes ‘cargo in the cabin.’”
Larger instruments are often checked, which can expose them to handling risks during loading and unloading.
Airlines also outline their own policies for instrument safety.
Delta states on its website that, “guitars and smaller musical instruments like violins or flutes will be accepted as your free carry-on bag item,” while noting that passengers may choose to check instruments depending on space and preference.
The airline also advises customers to use protective cases that meet durability standards.
The TikTok clip provoked almost 15,000 strong reactions from viewers, many of whom expressed frustration over baggage handling practices.
“That should be a fireable offense. That’s just egregious,” a critic declared.
Another pointed out, “$55 for checked baggage and we get this.”
A fellow commentator remarked on the spectacle, “Looks more intentional than careless.”
Musicians and frequent travelers have long raised concerns about checking instruments, which can be vulnerable to damage even when packed securely.
While federal rules allow instruments in cabins when feasible, limited overhead space and flight conditions often leave passengers with little choice but to check valuable items.
The video has not been independently verified and it remains unclear which airline or contractor employed the worker shown.
Travel Advice
Airports like LAX rely on a combination of airline staff and third-party ground handling companies to manage baggage operations, which can vary in training and oversight.
The incident highlights ongoing tension between airline policies designed to accommodate instruments and the realities of baggage handling on the ground.
Travelers carrying high-value or fragile items are often advised to purchase additional protection, including hard-shell cases or even separate seats for instruments, though such measures can come at significant cost.
Newsweek has reached out to goyamariacookie for comment via TikTok and LAX for comment via email. We could not verify the details of the case.
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