Originally Posted by
Bubbles09
Is this true even if the bag is checked through that you can go to baggage and just ask for it and you will get it? I assume that this is the case as if you don't get on the second flight the bag can't travel anyway. Not questioning you, just confirming my understanding.
Yes, your bag is yours and they cannot hold it hostage. How long it takes to get back depends very much on where it is in the process. If you have a long connection and the bag has been sent to the storage area then it is very quick because the system just recalls that tray and dumps it out for someone to put the bag on a belt. If the bag has been sent to be loaded on your next flight then it will take longer as someone may have to go and get it out of a container. Quickest around 20 mins, longest around 2 hours assuming they're not short staffed.