The airlines are all messed up about bringing rods om planes. They refused to let me bring my 4 piece fly rod on as a carry on but on my way back from my trip a gentlemen had his 4pc rod on the plane with him
guess its all about what screener you have. now i just use one of those Plano rod tubes and check it in with all my bags. Very durable and can fit a few rods in them with no prob. Thats your easiest way and you wont have any probs with the airlines.