So I just flew with this case for the first time - Southwest Airlines. They charged me $75 each way for oversize baggage. The dimensions of the case are 47.5" (h), 29" (w), and 17" (d) and the case and bass together weigh 43 lbs. The case held up just fine and the bass is unscathed.
The case is made out of a plastic, honey-comb type of material - very lightweight but sturdy. The black reinforced frame can really withstand a lot of pressure, but the sides of could be punctured if force was applied head on. It's very easy for one person to handle the case and the wheels work great. The rectangular shape of the case presumably makes it easy for baggage handlers to fit it into the cargo area. I was able to fit it on various shuttle buses and in the back of a mini-van with no problem. The fact that there are no latches or hinges is a plus too. The long velcro strap holds the lid on just fine.
It's a very simple, but efficiently designed case (one of the TSA agents complimented it). It's not cheap (feel free to PM me for what I paid), and looking at it, one would think that a homemade version could be reproduced. However, I know I couldn't make something that would work as well. I was dissapointed I still had to pay oversize fees though. I'll have to research each airline's oversize limits more carefully before I book my next flight and see if I can find an airline that wouldn't charge extra. Still, $75 is cheaper than what I'd likely have to pay for checking a big trunk.
I'll post some pics and try to keep updating this thread as I use the case more. I'll be flying with it again in July.
Also... about the bass... it's a Shen SB-150 that I bought from Bob Ross here in Denver. Bob did the removable neck conversion and it works and sounds great!
