Violinist and TikTok star Esther Abrami shared her disappointment after being denied to bring her instrument aboard a Ryanair flight.
She described feeling embarrassed and mistreated by the airline staff, recounting the experience as a moment of public humiliation.
A Disheartening Experience for a Talented Musician
Abrami revealed in an emotional Instagram post that she had been en route from Marseille to Berlin for a recording session of her upcoming third album in collaboration with Sony Classical. However, her plans were abruptly disrupted when she was prevented from carrying her violin onto the aircraft just before boarding her flight.
"This is the first time I have experienced such rudeness and public humiliation," the classical music icon said.
Upon attempting to purchase an additional seat, she was informed that the flight was fully booked and no extra seats were available.
Consequently, she was left with the choice of either checking the instrument in with the luggage or leaving it behind at the airport, which was the only available option.
Abrami pointed out the importance and fragility of her 200-year-old Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume violin.
She explained to the staff that she needed the instrument for a recording session for her upcoming album that day. She also noted that she had flown with the airline many times before without any issues.
The musician said in an Instagram post, "It came to the point where I even offered to take my violin out of the case, keeping its fabric protection and just carry it by hand and keeping it on me during the whole flight whilst they put the case in the cargo."
The airline personnel requested that Abrami unzip the case resting on the ground to measure the violin within the designated area for luggage measurements.
"The requirements for the cabin luggage - which I had paid for already - is a length of 55cm. My violin measures 56cm, it fitted diagonally, and otherwise was 1cm over. Even this was refused."
The Ripple Effect of Missed Opportunities
In light of the lack of resolution, Abrami secured a late-notice seat on an alternative flight from a different airline for the same day, ensuring she could attend her scheduled recording session.
"Not every musician can have this opportunity. Missing a flight often means losing a vital work opportunity, whether a gig, a recording session, or an important meeting."
"In an industry where every opportunity counts, such an incident can have a ripple effect, impacting reputation and future prospects. This is simply inacceptable."
