I've got a couple of questions about carrying on a "banner" (not sure what to call it) for a professional conference, in a (rectangular soft) carrying case that's 35 x 4 x 4 inches (43 linear inches). Hoping you guys can help.

1. How would this work in a Delta overhead bin? I'm pretty sure a 35-inch long item would fit easily but it would likely keep several wheeled bags from fitting.
2. Would this count as a personal item?

As you can imagine, it's important to have it with us. Thanks in advance.

I've carried hard plastic poster tubes ( 4' long, 3" diameter) before when I've been presenting at a science conference and I've never had an issue. Most of the time I've simply put it in the overhead bin (worst part, it usually rolls to the back of the bin), although once the FA was impressed enough to put it in the FC cabin.