Double bass smashed beyond repair by Qantas Airways

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Australian double bassist Mark Elton’s instrument was smashed beyond repair in transit from Melbourne to Perth via Qantas Airways, where Elton was to perform a month of shows at the Fringe World festival. Elton only became aware of the damage after opening his flight case upon arrival, and argues that Qantas should have notified him of any accidents, in addition to issuing an apology.

The double bass is cracked in multiple places, the worst split running all the way across the top of the instrument, and Elton posits that it must have been dropped from a considerable height. There was also substantial damage to the case, carving through multiple layers and destroying the zip.

Elton revealed the damage in an Instagram post, tagging Qantas and asking for their support in the matter: ‘After many years of being a club member and choosing to fly with Qantas I’m hoping you’ll support me through this major emotional & financial setback.’

Qantas commented on the post, stating that they were sorry to hear of the damage to the instrument and instructed Elton to submit a report to the customer care team, adding that he could directly message them for further assistance.

All photos: facebook.com/markeltonbass

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