well i checked my bass- they didn't even blink at the counter (it is not heavy, but exceeds the dimensions cause of its length), just asked me if it was a guitar (my case could also be mistaken for a firearm case too). airport wasn't busy though, and i checked in at first class not at kiosk- i always think this makes a difference but maybe it is just in my head.

now i will go and enjoy my admiral's club bagels...