Yes, the Manfrotto 244N Variable Friction Magic Arm may be carried in a carry-on case for flight travel.

Without knowing particulars, that sounds like an unsafe application, especially if it’s mounted overhead. Magic arms are designed like human arms, with two sections connected by an elbow joint. A 90 degree angle between the two sections is strong and reliable. The further one moves toward 0 degrees, the less stable the rig becomes.

The most I've put on one is an FS-7 with a lens. I'm sure it will hold more. They are incredibly useful

The Manfrotto 3/8" + 3/8" Adapter Spigot, B&H # MA125 can allow this arm to connect to the Easy-Link on select Manfrotto tripods. https://bhpho.to/2QlhTJZ

You need to re-lube the tightening mechanism with a small amount of grease.

The 143 has a lever that locks the arm, it's either locked or unlocked. The 244 has variable friction controlled by the big knob. With the 143, you have to use a fair amount of force to 'pop' it into the locked position, so if you're trying to position something very exact or delicate, it's tricky because that force can move things. The 244 allows you to loosen it just enough to make minor adjustments. Both are solid up to their capacities, so I use them sometimes for small fixtures like Dedolights but more often for dots, fingers, etc. With lighting fixtures, sometimes I find I'm limited more by the stand going off balance or whatever is holding the arm than by the arm itself. I prefer the 244.

I don't attach a Manfrotto tripod to this, but I can attach lights, microphones, and even a camcorder that has a female connector on the handle, such as the Canon XF105 <a href= http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/733535-REG/Canon_4885B001_XF105_HD_Professional_Camcorder.html target= _blank >http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/733535-REG/Canon_4885B001_XF105_HD_Professional_Camcorder.html</a>

I'd sure try it. I'm very impressed with it's hold