Since I'll be flying in, I'm wondering about others' experiences in getting their gear from point A to point B via the airlines without having it smashed, stolen or otherwise mistreated? Cheers.
John
I've always taken my gear as carry on (tripod excepted) and I've not any problems with either Westjet or Air Canada. No problems with security either, although one time I was asked to turn on my Leica IIIc!
I do as craig and include my tripod. I have brought 2 LF's, lenses, film holders, light meter, film, etc... plus an MF body and lenses, film in carryons and camera bag with the tripod loose.
I kinda do the opposite. I always make sure it can fit underneath the seat in front of me. There's always space there.
Sometimes, there's not always space overhead and then you'll have to deal with the specific airline attendant, etc... This can be a problem depending on the attendant at hand. Also, other passengers couldn't care less about your equipment if it's overhead and out of your control for any reason.
Of course, I travel with my Hassey not an 8x10, so it's easy for me to write this!