A flightcase is a transportation container used to safely pack and transport anything that needs protection. Originally, flightcases were used by rock and roll touring bands to transport sound equipment, lighting equipment and musical instruments. Today, flightcases are used in touring, TV, film, military, medical, business and many other industries.
The term flightcase is synonymous with road case and ATA case, but while road case is the more commonly used term in the United States, flightcase is the industry accepted word in Europe. In addition, unlike road cases, the name implies that the case is primarily for air based travel and freight needs. As of recently, some flightcases are equipped with TSA-approved locks to comply with new air travel security measures.
A flightcase is typically made of plywood sheets (phenolic or with plastic layer, sometimes an aluminum layer). The sheets are kept together using aluminum extrusion profiles and rivets. Composite materials such as Plasti-Clad are used for strong and light weight case needs. Hardware fittings are made of galvanized steel. Handles and catches usually are recessed types. Big and/or heavy flightcases are fitted with castors. Inside walls can be lined with shock-absorbing foam. Flightcases are often custom-made to meet specific user requirements. Single unit production is common, just as serial production. Assembly is mostly done manually. Machinery is only used for cutting the profiles and sheets. CNC machinery can be used to cut out holes for handles and catches.