DougC, I would call any or all of the following with your specific concerns:
[*]The two airlines you are flying for their policies on musical instruments, especially tubas[*]Any Tuba Instructor that has flown with a tuba[*]A music school that offers tuba instruction[*]Any Performing Arts Center, speaking with persons responsible for travel logistics[*]Your local travel professional[*]The Music Department of any university, college or high school, etc.[*]Any music store that sells tubas[*]Any performer of the tuba that has flown with a tuba
Hopefully, you'll get a solid solution to your fragile situation. Good luck!

[This message has been edited by MRLIMO (edited 08-30-1999).]