You must have heard about many celebrities or even normal citizens posting on social media about their luggage being damaged by airlines. This can be one of the most frustrating experiences, as there might be some important luggage that might get hampered because of the mishandling by the airline staff. But is posting on social media the first and only action that you should take? Well, not really. Here’s a first-time traveler’s survival guide on what to do when airlines damage your bag. Take a look.
What To Do If Airline Damages Luggage: Claim, Compensation Rules And More
What To Do Immediately After Airline Damages Your Bag
The first and foremost thing to do when you receive your luggage is to check it thoroughly for any damage. This is important because claiming after you have left the airport is a more difficult and sometimes vague process. So the moment you get your hands on your luggage, check it well.
God forbid, if you witness any damage, the first thing to do is to keep your cool. Panicking is the last thing you should ever think of doing, especially in such situations. This is because your prompt actions can actually help you come out of this situation, and panicking blocks exactly that.
The next thing that is commonly seen in travelers is that they leave the airport. There are two types of travelers in this situation: one who just accepts their fate and leaves, while the other thinks about reporting the issue later, online. Well, both of these are absolutely vague options. Stay back at the airport, take pictures of the damage as well as the luggage barcode tags, and then visit the airline’s baggage service desk.
How To Report Damaged Baggage Airport
You must visit the airline’s baggage service desk and show them your damaged luggage. The next thing you need to do is file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). This is the most crucial step, which officially documents the damage to the luggage.
Filing this will help you to claim any possible compensation or repair. This paperwork documenting damage can either be on physical papers or electronically via email, depending on the airline you are traveling with.
Make sure you get a copy of the PIR (Property Irregularity Report) and also the name and contact details of the staff helping you with the same. This can be helpful for the future.
Some airlines may also offer immediate bag replacement or a repair referral if the damage is severe. You might also have to submit a formal written claim as well. This includes PIR number, boarding pass stub, bag tag stub, photos of the damage, and repair estimates.
Airline Luggage Compensation Rules
There are certain instances where the airlines do not cover damages:
- Minor scratches, dents, or broken wheels or broken straps and others that are caused by regular handling.
- Damages that are a result of overpacked or structurally weak bag.
- Any damages caused to fragile items, electronics, or expensive items, especially when they are not declared in advance.
This answers one of the most asked questions, “Can Airlines Refuse Damaged Baggage Claims?” It is clear that if the damage comes under any of the three points above, the airline can refuse your claim.
Tips To Avoid Luggage Damage During Flights
- Make sure you thoroughly check the baggage. This is because after filing a claim with the airline for the same, you cannot file a second claim. Having said that, this depends on airline to airline.
- Read all the luggage damage compensation rules and related information well before boarding or even while booking. This can save you from last-minute hassles and potential loss.
- Before boarding, make sure you take pictures of your bag to show before-and-after images if the bags are found to be damaged later.
- If your claim is taking a while, make sure you persistently contact them via email or calls.
- Choose the right type of luggage. For example, hard-shell suitcases are better for resisting pressure and won’t be crushed.
- Do not overpack and try not to exceed 80 percent of the bag’s capacity.
Summing Up
If you find your luggage damaged, make sure you keep your claim and act fast on the given process to claim your baggage easily and quickly. Also, do not miss out on reading the rules and regulations by the airlines, as they will help you in unfortunate situations. Happy flying!
