jagadheep

I'm really serious. That doesn't mean that luggage gets lost permanently, but a higher than normal fraction of luggage doesn't make it to the connecting flight at PHL. So, if transiting through PHL, pack essentials in your carry-on so that if your checked baggage doesn't make it, you can still survive for a couple of days.

And I will second the suggestion of flying a European rather than American carrier if you have a choice.