A video of Air Canada baggage handlers tossing baggage 20 ft was just posted on youtube and has received lots of media attention - just happened 2 days ago. Apparently this practice does occur also with other airlines - also reported in this news clip is damage done to baggage on a United flight.
Watch the video (after the commercial) to see what was a passenger videotaped on his phone - the comments that you hear are made by passengers in disbelief of the handlers actions:
http://www.ctvnews.ca/business/air-c...ired-1.1783056
I dont think that I would want my sewing machine in any of the bags that are tossed around like this - if you are forced to check at the gate and it is always a possibility it will be damaged. Lots of suggestions on how to get a machine to use after arrival when travelling by air have been given in this discussion and may be worth looking into. Keep your expensive baby safe by leaving it at home.