How airport handle Lost or Damaged baggage
Travelling is exciting, but losing your luggage can quickly turn a happy journey into a stressful one. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or studying travel management in an Air Hostess Course, it’s important to understand how airports and airlines handle lost or damaged bags. This knowledge helps passengers stay calm and take the right steps when something goes wrong.
1. When Your Luggage Is Delayed
Sometimes your checked-in baggage doesn’t arrive on the same flight. Don’t worry—most airports have a baggage service counter in the arrival hall. Passengers can report missing bags to the airline staff, who will help file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).
If your bag doesn’t arrive within 24 hours, you may be eligible for a small interim expense allowance as per the airline’s policy. This helps cover basic needs like clothes or toiletries until your bag is returned.
2. When Your Luggage Is Lost
If your baggage is not found within 21 days from the date the report was filed, it is officially declared lost. At this stage, you’ll need to provide a list of items inside the bag, along with details like their description, age, and proof of purchase or ownership. Once verified, the airline will process compensation according to the rules of the Carriage by Air Act.
3. When Your Luggage Is Damaged
Bags go through a lot of handling during flights, so small scratches or dents are usually considered normal wear and tear. However, if your luggage is seriously damaged or tampered with, report it to the airline staff before leaving the arrival hall.
Do note that airlines are not responsible for damage caused by overpacking, fragile items, or manufacturing defects. It’s best to avoid checking in valuables like jewellery, electronics, or cash. Instead, carry them in your hand luggage or insure them before travel.
4. Rules for International and Domestic Flights
For international travel, baggage compensation is handled according to global aviation laws under the Indian Carriage by Air Act, 1972 (amended 2009).
For domestic flights, the same act applies but with local regulations issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Both sets of rules ensure fair treatment for passengers while protecting airlines under defined liability limits.
5. Smart Travel Tips
To avoid stress, always tag your bags clearly, keep travel documents safe, and pack essentials in your carry-on. Students or professionals from an Air Hostess Course know that staying calm and informed helps in these situations—because airlines follow strict procedures to locate, repair, or compensate for lost and damaged luggage efficiently.
6. What to Do and Who to Contact
If your baggage is delayed, lost, or damaged, follow these steps immediately:
Report at the Arrival Hall: Go straight to the airline’s baggage service counter before leaving the airport.
File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR): Give details about your baggage, including color, size, and tag number. You’ll receive a copy for your records.
Keep All Documents: Keep your boarding pass, baggage tag, and the PIR copy safe.
Track Online: Use your PIR number on the airline’s website or baggage tracking portal.
Stay in Touch: If your baggage isn’t found or is damaged, contact the airline’s baggage helpline or customer service.
Major Airline Baggage Helpline Numbers
| Airline | Helpline Number (India) | Email / Website |
|---|---|---|
| Air India | 1860 233 1407 | baggage@airindia.com |
| IndiGo Airlines | 0124 617 3838 / 0124 497 3838 | customer.relations@goindigo.in |
| Vistara | 9289228888 | custrelations@airvistara.com |
| SpiceJet | 0124 4983410 / 0124 7101600 | custrelations@spicejet.com |
| AirAsia India | 080 4666 2222 | support.airasia.com |
| Akasa Air | 9606 112131 | contactus@akasaair.com |
| International Fight | International Fight No. | International Fight Mail Id. |
| Emirates | 022 33773377 | baggage.services@emirates.com |
| Qatar Airways | 1800 123 8315 | support@qatarairways.com |
| Singapore Airlines | 1800 102 1233 | india_feedback@singaporeair.com.sg |
| British Airways | 0124 412 0715 | baggageclaims@ba.com |
| Lufthansa | 1800 102 5838 | baggage.del@dlh.de |
Tip: Always collect the baggage claim reference and keep your contact number updated in the report so the airline can reach you once your baggage is located.
