On the subject of hand luggage weight, I specifically asked about the ridiculously low 5kg hand luggage weight limit last spring. I did have a 20kg checked luggage limit which is more than adequate, but who wants to pack valuable optics and camera gear in the hold? Most replies said I most probably wouldn't have a problem.
However, I did have my luggage weighed at Manchester, and it was 7Kg!! Something had to come out I was told, so after a minute or two fumbling inside my bag, I removed two items. A camera lens and something else which I can't remember, probably my bins. Those two items were quickly stuffed in the large front pocket of my Paramo Torres smock, until I had walked around the corner, when they went straight back in!
I still can't get my head around how petty airline weight limits can be, but in future I would consider not taking my big scope, in favour of my travel scope, so no digi-scoping would be possible. Stuff any camera gear you're carrying into pockets before check-in and you should be OK. Lesson learned, but I'd need some pretty substantial pockets to fit a 500f4 inside, if I was ever lucky enough to own one.