Ray,
They stopped asking us to “power up” a few years ago. But, REMOVE the viewfinder if they make you stow the camera. We just did a return flight with AWA and they put us on a small plane,with small overhead bins. They promised to HAND CARRY the camera down to the tarmac and HAND LOAD it into the plane’s belly. Imagine our eyes when they TOSSED it onto a conveyor belt and we then saw it slide off the end onto the ground. After we found that the EVF was torn of, they replied “We have a contract that says we are not responsible for camera equipment”. However, they voided their own contract when they took our CARRY ON and verbally promised special care in handling. We are presently battling them to pay for the damages. And you know us. We don’t lose. Either way, don’t give it to them. Carrying a small handgun will do the trick if they try to take your gear.
Southwest has better planes. I doubt you’ll have a problem. Keep your case under 22″ long and check the rules and regs for specifics on carry-on size. Personally, I would use a shoulder case. You know, the glove type of protection that wraps around the camera. Ask if you can pre-board and explain that you need to be careful how you pack it in the overhead. Southwest’s people are actual human beings.
Birthday is still coming up, by the way.
Steve Wargo
Tempe, Arizona
It’s a dry heat!