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Damaged Baggage Compensation
Damage to baggage during air transport is a frequent incident that can lead to material losses. From broken or torn suitcases to destroyed items inside checked baggage, any damage occurring during handling or transport gives rise to a right to compensation for the passenger. Both the Montreal Convention of 1999 and Regulation (EC) No 889/2002 stipulate the airline's obligation to repair the damage caused by damaged baggage, within the limits established by international law.
When are you entitled to compensation for damaged baggage?
The damaged baggage was checked-in (hold baggage).
The damage occurred during air transport (between handing over the baggage and its return at the destination).
The incident occurred less than two years from the date of the aircraft's arrival or the date on which the aircraft should have arrived.
The damage was reported within the legal deadline – 7 calendar days from receipt of the baggage.
The damage is visible and can be proven (photos, statements, service assessments).
No prohibited or unpermitted items that could have caused the damage were transported in the baggage.
The incident occurred on an international flight departing from an EU state, a flight operated by an EU airline, or an intra-community flight.
Damage caused by an inherent defect of the baggage.
If the loss or damage to baggage was caused by unforeseen and uncontrollable external events.
What compensation can you receive for damaged baggage?
Under the Montreal Convention, compensation for damaged baggage is limited to 1,288 SDR (Special Drawing Rights) per passenger, equivalent to approximately EUR 1,600, depending on the exchange rate.
Compensation may cover:
Repair of the damaged baggage.
Compensation may cover:
Replacement of the baggage, if repair is not possible or cost-effective.
Compensation may cover:
The equivalent value of the goods destroyed inside the baggage.
How to claim compensation for damaged baggage?
To obtain compensation, it is essential that the written complaint is submitted within 7 calendar days of receiving the baggage, and it is necessary to present:
The baggage tag;
The flight ticket and boarding pass;
The PIR (Property Irregularity Report) completed at the airport;
Clear photographs of the baggage damage;
Repair quote or proof of replacement value;
Written correspondence with the airline.
File a complaint at the airport
Complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) as soon as you notice the baggage is missing.
Contact the airline
Send a written request within a maximum of 7 days for damage, from the date the baggage was made available to the passenger, mentioning all the details and attaching the supporting documents.
Submit the request
You can use our platform to manage the entire process, including direct negotiations with the carrier or legal action.
Receive compensation
After the claim is approved, the amount is transferred directly to your bank account.
Frequently asked questions about compensation for lost connections
Only if the damage is significant and affects the use of the baggage. Minor scratches or bumps are not compensated.
Ideally, you should have proof of purchase, but an assessment of the market value or a repair quote from an authorized service center may also be accepted.
As a rule, the last airline operator is responsible, but there may be situations of joint liability. Collaborating with a specialized service facilitates the identification of the responsible carrier.
Yes, if you have proof of repair and the invoice issued, the company can reimburse the costs, provided that you have submitted the claim within the legal deadline.
You can also claim compensation for damaged goods, but you must prove that they were properly packaged and that the damage occurred during transport.
You have 7 days from receiving your baggage to send the written claim. If you exceed this deadline, the company may refuse the request.
Yes, if repair is impossible or economically unjustified, the compensation may cover the replacement cost with baggage of similar characteristics.
Yes. You can refuse vouchers and have the legal right to request monetary compensation.
It depends on the company, but in general, the response should come within 30 days. If there is no response, you can take action through ClaimBee.