Dear all,

I've got an issue with damaged baggage. After receiving my baggage on the airport, there was tear in hard shell. Claimed damage on the airport, received file reference and get a contact for a local service. Local service said that it is total damage and offered a new baggage (also better value). Because I do not need a new one (I have a spare baggage at home), I have called to Air Canada and requested reimbursement. On the baggage information line they promised USD 100, which, if I understood it well, is a fixed amount and I agree with this amount. Value of the baggage is about USD 110 (on the receipt) and is approx 2,5 years old. I have travelled with this baggage exactly three times, so it was in "brand new condition". After reading a few comments over the forums, I see that getting money from Air Canada is really hard and painful.

I've got a few questions:
1) Do they apply any "amortization" of the value on 2,5 years old baggage? I would accept minimum amount USD 100 and I am afraid of any amortization. Is USD 100 really fixed amount?
2) How long does it usually take to get a reimbursement? Any experience? They told me that reaction time is 35-45 bussiness days - it must be a joke.

I would accept minimum amount USD 100 reimbursement. I don't want to solve this issue for a long time, in that case I would rather get a new baggage offered from the service, even if I do not need it.

What do you suggest? Any experience with Air Canada and solving baggage issues?

Thank you,
malda