Jan 3, 2016, 9:48 am
Last edit by: Prospero
Note: Live AA baggage tracking became available 15 Sep 2015. Bags are scanned at several points, and using the app you can generally see where your bags are. Not all airports have this capability.
NOTE: On itineraries with more than one airline, the responsible airline for lost or delayed baggage is the final carrier; that carrier's procedures may differ from AA's. In any case, most do require if you arrive at your destination and your baggage has not arrived (or has been damaged), be sure to fill out a baggage claim form prior to leaving the airport
Wheels, "protuberances" etc. please see:
If from an international flight, Article 17 of the Montreal Convention applies; see below. The final operating carrier is responsible for locating and returning, or compensating the checking passenger if not delivered within 21 days.
The SDR on 28 Aug 2017 was valued at $1.42, so 1,131 SDR was approximately $1,603.00. Use this link to convert SDR to USD.
Link to aa.com Delayed Baggage; FAQ.
Link to aa.com LIABILITY LIMITATIONS regarding baggage - but see
USDOT reminder to airlines compensation is due for damaged wheels, straps, etc.
Link to aa.com DAMAGED BAGGAGE
Link to aa.com Delayed Baggage tracking form (need baggage claim file locator number to use)
American Airlines Conditions of Carriage (See BAGGAGE et seq., including Liability.)
Link to PDF about baggage damage and loss by Christopher Cotter, Attorney at Law.
[QUOTE]Q. I flew internationally. What rules governs baggage damage or loss?
Article 17 of the Montreal Convention:
"2. The carrier liable for damage sustained in case of destruction or loss of, or of damage to, checked baggage upon condition only that the event which caused the destruction, loss or damage took place on board the aircraft or during any period within which the checked baggage was in the charge of the carrier. However, the carrier is not liable if and to the extent that the damage resulted from the inherent defect, quality or vice of the baggage. In the case of unchecked baggage, including personal items, the carrier is liable if the damage resulted from its fault or that of its servants or agents.
3. If the carrier admits the loss of the checked baggage, or if the checked baggage has not arrived at the expiration of twenty-one days after the date on which it ought to have arrived, the passenger is entitled to enforce against the carrier the rights which flow from the contract of carriage.
4. Unless otherwise specified, in this Convention the term "baggage" means both checked baggage and unchecked baggage."
Q. What can I do to help prevent or resolve baggage loss?
Link to posts prior to 2019
Bags at hubs are “mega scanned” or scanned at every point of contact. The first point of scan would most likely be the sorter where the bag is sent to the corresponding belt where the flight is being loaded.
Bags that miss their flights are delivered to the expeditor(s) who handle IROPS bags and send them on their way. Most likely, the bag is sent on the next AA flight. We are able to send bags on various other airlines but sending them on our own metal is always preferable.
Bags that miss their flights are delivered to the expeditor(s) who handle IROPS bags and send them on their way. Most likely, the bag is sent on the next AA flight. We are able to send bags on various other airlines but sending them on our own metal is always preferable.
Track your bags Link
September 18, 2015:
Hello, Addressee,
AAdvantage <status tier> Number:
You can now follow your checked bags from check-in to carousel with your smartphone, laptop or tablet. See real-time information about your bag's status, including when your bag is checked in, on a plane or at baggage claim. All you need is your bag tag number or your record locator.
And, if your flight has Wi-Fi onboard, you can track your bags in the air for free.
Here's how to get started:
Keep track of your bags from check-in to touchdown using your record locator or bag tag number.
Hello, Addressee,
AAdvantage <status tier> Number:
You can now follow your checked bags from check-in to carousel with your smartphone, laptop or tablet. See real-time information about your bag's status, including when your bag is checked in, on a plane or at baggage claim. All you need is your bag tag number or your record locator.
And, if your flight has Wi-Fi onboard, you can track your bags in the air for free.
Here's how to get started:
- Go to aa.com/baggage
- Click "Track your bags"
- Enter your last name and bag tag # or record locator
Keep track of your bags from check-in to touchdown using your record locator or bag tag number.
What if I need clothing or toiletries because my baggage is missing?
Link
Reimbursement
We will reimburse you for items you need immediately while away from home without your bags. Within 45 days of your delay, please send us:
Your 13-character file reference number
A copy of your ticket receipt and baggage claim checks
Your original, dated, itemized receipts
Send verification items to:
American Airlines Central Baggage
4000 East Sky Harbor Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Fax: 480-693-2305
Link
Reimbursement
We will reimburse you for items you need immediately while away from home without your bags. Within 45 days of your delay, please send us:
Your 13-character file reference number
A copy of your ticket receipt and baggage claim checks
Your original, dated, itemized receipts
Send verification items to:
American Airlines Central Baggage
4000 East Sky Harbor Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Fax: 480-693-2305
American Airlines: Delayed Baggage: Baggage delayed less than 5 days
Phone: +1-800-535-5225
24 hours, 7 days a week
Baggage delayed longer than 5 days
See www.aa.com/bagstatus for further information.[/color][color="Navy"]
Phone: +1-800-535-5225
24 hours, 7 days a week
Baggage delayed longer than 5 days
See www.aa.com/bagstatus for further information.[/color][color="Navy"]
American Airlines: Delayed or missing baggage:
We do our best to ensure that your checked bag travels on the same flight with you. If your bag does not arrive on your flight, our goal is to return your bag to you within 24 hours. The measures may take longer for international itineraries due to flight frequency or Customs and Immigration procedures.
Note: These procedures apply when American Airlines or American Eagle are taking you to your final destination.
If you are unable to locate your checked bag:
Notify an American Airlines/American Eagle baggage service agent prior to leaving the airport (If you purchased the American Airlines baggage delivery service provided through BAGS VIP Luggage Delivery in advance of travel, notification must be made within 12 hours of the arrival of the flight on which you traveled.)
If your bag isn't located in five (5) days:
If you’re unable to submit online, you can send your claim and verification items by mail or fax.
American Airlines Central Baggage
4000 East Sky Harbor Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Fax: 480-693-2305
Link
We do our best to ensure that your checked bag travels on the same flight with you. If your bag does not arrive on your flight, our goal is to return your bag to you within 24 hours. The measures may take longer for international itineraries due to flight frequency or Customs and Immigration procedures.
Note: These procedures apply when American Airlines or American Eagle are taking you to your final destination.
If you are unable to locate your checked bag:
Notify an American Airlines/American Eagle baggage service agent prior to leaving the airport (If you purchased the American Airlines baggage delivery service provided through BAGS VIP Luggage Delivery in advance of travel, notification must be made within 12 hours of the arrival of the flight on which you traveled.)
- You will be given a confidential file locator ID and a brochure explaining the recovery process
- Our Baggage Service desk will contact you periodically to keep you informed of our progress in locating your bag (aspirational statement)
- Refer to your confidential six-letter file locator (not your PNR) in all conversation and correspondence regarding your delayed bag
- Use your last name and confidential six-letter baggage file locator (not your PNR)to check the status of your bag.Check Baggage Status
If your bag isn't located in five (5) days:
- Central Baggage Service will take over the tracing effort
- Fill out and return a Property Questionnaire within 30 days from the date you traveled
- Available on the 6th day at www.aa.com/bagstatus.
- Mailed to your permanent address within 10 days of your travel date.
- Complete the questionnaire in its entirety including specific details such as colors, sizes, brand names and logos as well as information such as book titles, medication, electronics, gifts, souvenirs and food items
- Retain a copy for your records
If you’re unable to submit online, you can send your claim and verification items by mail or fax.
American Airlines Central Baggage
4000 East Sky Harbor Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Fax: 480-693-2305
Link
Damaged baggage:
Prompt notification of a damaged bag helps us get your property to you promptly therefore all American Airlines and American Eagle airport locations are equipped to handle the initial report, evaluation and settlement of damage claims. If your bag is damaged, please notify us:
Please notify us as soon as possible. Failure to report damage to baggage within the prescribed time limit releases American Airlines and American Eagle from any liability.
Prompt notification of a damaged bag helps us get your property to you promptly therefore all American Airlines and American Eagle airport locations are equipped to handle the initial report, evaluation and settlement of damage claims. If your bag is damaged, please notify us:
- In person before leaving the airport
- At the latest, within 24 hours after you receive your bag for domestic itineraries
- Within 7 days for international itineraries
Please notify us as soon as possible. Failure to report damage to baggage within the prescribed time limit releases American Airlines and American Eagle from any liability.
Notice regarding damage to wheels, handles, and other components of checked baggage
Baggage_Guidance_rev_11242015.pdf (link)
About this Document
In September 2015, the Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings (Enforcement Office) conducted extensive inspections of U.S. and foreign air carriers’ operations at 16 U.S. airports. The Enforcement Office found, among other things, that carriers routinely exclude from liability damage to specific parts of checked baggage, such as wheels, straps, zippers, handles, and protruding parts. Carriers often post signs indicating that they categorically refuse to compensate passengers for such items. In some instances, carrier agents also discouraged or refused to accept reports of such damage.
Baggage_Guidance_rev_11242015.pdf (link)
About this Document
In September 2015, the Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings (Enforcement Office) conducted extensive inspections of U.S. and foreign air carriers’ operations at 16 U.S. airports. The Enforcement Office found, among other things, that carriers routinely exclude from liability damage to specific parts of checked baggage, such as wheels, straps, zippers, handles, and protruding parts. Carriers often post signs indicating that they categorically refuse to compensate passengers for such items. In some instances, carrier agents also discouraged or refused to accept reports of such damage.
"The Montreal Convention changes and generally increases the maximum liability of airlines for lost baggage to a fixed amount 1,131 SDR per passenger (the amount in the Warsaw Convention is based on weight of the baggage). It requires airlines to fully compensate travellers the cost of replacement items purchased until the baggage is delivered, to a maximum of 1,131 SDR (XDR currency code, ~$1,652 May 2017). At 21 days any delayed baggage is considered lost, even if the airline delivers it after that period."
Link to aa.com Delayed Baggage; FAQ.
Link to aa.com LIABILITY LIMITATIONS regarding baggage - but see
USDOT reminder to airlines compensation is due for damaged wheels, straps, etc.
Link to aa.com DAMAGED BAGGAGE
Link to aa.com Delayed Baggage tracking form (need baggage claim file locator number to use)
American Airlines Conditions of Carriage (See BAGGAGE et seq., including Liability.)
Link to PDF about baggage damage and loss by Christopher Cotter, Attorney at Law.
[QUOTE]Q. I flew internationally. What rules governs baggage damage or loss?
Article 17 of the Montreal Convention:
"2. The carrier liable for damage sustained in case of destruction or loss of, or of damage to, checked baggage upon condition only that the event which caused the destruction, loss or damage took place on board the aircraft or during any period within which the checked baggage was in the charge of the carrier. However, the carrier is not liable if and to the extent that the damage resulted from the inherent defect, quality or vice of the baggage. In the case of unchecked baggage, including personal items, the carrier is liable if the damage resulted from its fault or that of its servants or agents.
3. If the carrier admits the loss of the checked baggage, or if the checked baggage has not arrived at the expiration of twenty-one days after the date on which it ought to have arrived, the passenger is entitled to enforce against the carrier the rights which flow from the contract of carriage.
4. Unless otherwise specified, in this Convention the term "baggage" means both checked baggage and unchecked baggage."
Q. What can I do to help prevent or resolve baggage loss?
- Don't place valuables in your checked baggage; such loss is generally not covered by airline policy. Some airports have higher pilferage and theft rates.
- Have two baggage tags, affixed at different points on each bag; handles do get torn off
- Use a baggage belt: some have TSA-approved locks, and a belt may keep your bag from spilling contents if it becomes damaged. A bright color helps distinguish your bag from similar ones.
- Add a pom, ribbon or other device enabling you - and others - to distinguish your bag from similar / identical bags.
- Have identifying information and an itinerary inside your case where it will be seen if the bag is opened (which will occur if external tags are lost).
- Some use an itinerary tag such as this Magellan's retriever tags.
- Have a photo or two of your bags on your smartphone to show the baggage clerk exactly what your bag looks like.
Link to posts prior to 2019
Lost baggage /luggage delay, loss, damage - advice, compensation, etc. master thread
Feb 22, 2021, 8:01 am
#166
Join Date: Jul 2015
Location: DFW
Posts: 524
Thanks everyone. Pretty much what I figured. Kind of annoying because I've shipped dozens of bottles of alcohol via UPS and never had a single one broken.
My bag was overweight by 5lbs and the gate agent was being a stickler for the rules, so I had to remove two bottles and have them packed separately. Of course it was my most expensive bottle of añejo that broke and not my cheaper ones.
My bag was overweight by 5lbs and the gate agent was being a stickler for the rules, so I had to remove two bottles and have them packed separately. Of course it was my most expensive bottle of añejo that broke and not my cheaper ones.
Feb 22, 2021, 8:54 am
#170
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: PWM
Programs: AA Lifetime Gold, 1MM, Bonsai Plat-Pro, Bonvoy Gold, IHG Platinum
Posts: 381
You have My Sincere Condolences , Airline Tragedies are Rough. I suggest you and the Survivor spend some Quality time, and Remember your good friend Anejo! RT
Feb 22, 2021, 8:57 am
#171
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Ohio, USA
Programs: AA, DL, UA, HA
Posts: 22
I once saw a soft-sided duffel bag with about a dozen bottles come down the chute when we were collecting our bags from a Channel hydrofoil crossing. You could here the contents clanking together in the bag. There did not appear to be any padding and the liquid was just running out of the bag. The owner was very upset.
Feb 22, 2021, 9:32 am
#172
Join Date: Jul 2015
Location: DFW
Posts: 524
I once saw a soft-sided duffel bag with about a dozen bottles come down the chute when we were collecting our bags from a Channel hydrofoil crossing. You could here the contents clanking together in the bag. There did not appear to be any padding and the liquid was just running out of the bag. The owner was very upset.
The bottle lost was Fortaleza Añejo which cost about $55 in Mexico, but costs about $90 in the US. It was a Los Abuelos marked bottle and not Fortaleza, so that made it a bit more special. Of course it was the nicest bottle I bought that broke. The cheaper ones didn't break at all.
I got about 1/4oz out of the bottle and was able to enjoy it. I suppose I could have wrung out my clothes, but it ain't that good of a tequila.
One time I went to Texas and brought back a bunch of salsa and queso in jars. I had everything packed perfectly, but TSA decided to inspect the bag and basically threw everything back in there in a disorganized fashion. One of the salsa jars broke and got salsa EVERYWHERE. Imagine trying to clean that out of clothes.
Last edited by poisson; Feb 22, 2021 at 10:07 am
Feb 22, 2021, 3:14 pm
#173
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: Austin, TX
Programs: CoUniHound 1K 1MM, AA EXP 2MM, DL Plat, Marriott Lifetime Titanium
Posts: 1,625
Imagine the problems of the other people on the flight..."Honestly, sweetheart, it was a business trip. I have no idea why my clothes smell like tequila."
Feb 22, 2021, 5:30 pm
#174
Join Date: Nov 2000
Location: ATL/TLV/SDF
Programs: AA EXP, UA LT Ag, Marriott LT Ti, Hyatt Glob, Avis PC, Busted-Knuckles Club Grand Poobah.
Posts: 2,590
Was underage (16) bringing home a bottle of (probably terrible; what does a 16 year old California kid know about cognac?) cognac for my alcoholic Ma from a high-school Paris trip and had it shatter inside my bag on the ORY-JFK flight (on a Capitol Air DC-8, even!). The Customs guy gave me major stink-eye but seeing how the booze was clearly undrinkable he let me pass, with my bag trailing a dribble of hi-octane cheap brandy behind me.
Feb 26, 2021, 10:23 pm
#175
Original Member
Join Date: May 1998
Location: Orange County, CA, USA
Programs: AA (Life Plat), Marriott (Life Titanium) and every other US program
Posts: 6,411
Was underage (16) bringing home a bottle of (probably terrible; what does a 16 year old California kid know about cognac?) cognac for my alcoholic Ma from a high-school Paris trip and had it shatter inside my bag on the ORY-JFK flight (on a Capitol Air DC-8, even!). The Customs guy gave me major stink-eye but seeing how the booze was clearly undrinkable he let me pass, with my bag trailing a dribble of hi-octane cheap brandy behind me.
Feb 26, 2021, 11:25 pm
#176
Join Date: Jun 2018
Posts: 153
I remember travelling LAX-CDG-HAJ, with my dad & his lady, back in the mid-90s.
They bought 2 cartons of Marlboro duty-free at LAX, 2 cartons on-board and 3 more cartons at CDG. As they had a later flight to HAJ, we split ways at CDG and my dad thought it was a good idea to stuff all the cigarettes in my carry-on; assuming that I would not be checked by customs.
End of the story - I arrived at HAJ with 1.400 cigarettes in my possesion, exceeding the limit by 1.200 - as a 16-year old non-smoker!
My dad was right...it worked out, but he was an a-hole for pullin' that stunt!
They bought 2 cartons of Marlboro duty-free at LAX, 2 cartons on-board and 3 more cartons at CDG. As they had a later flight to HAJ, we split ways at CDG and my dad thought it was a good idea to stuff all the cigarettes in my carry-on; assuming that I would not be checked by customs.
End of the story - I arrived at HAJ with 1.400 cigarettes in my possesion, exceeding the limit by 1.200 - as a 16-year old non-smoker!
My dad was right...it worked out, but he was an a-hole for pullin' that stunt!
Mar 3, 2021, 5:04 am
#177
Join Date: May 2017
Programs: Delta DM, Hyatt Diamond
Posts: 67
Delayed bags, reimbursement
Bags were 48 hrs delayed. Rep on phone told me I would be reimbursed for "necessary and reasonable" expenses but that she could offer no further definition of that term. Spent $700 to replace items that were in my luggage. Sent in receipts and got a check from AA. Getting bags delayed worked out well in this case. What is the most people have gotten from AA for delayed bags?
Mar 3, 2021, 7:03 am
#179
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: Soprano Land / North Jersey
Programs: MSC Diamond, NCL Platinum Plus, RCCL Platinum, IHG Platinum Elite
Posts: 204
Bags were 48 hrs delayed. Rep on phone told me I would be reimbursed for "necessary and reasonable" expenses but that she could offer no further definition of that term. Spent $700 to replace items that were in my luggage. Sent in receipts and got a check from AA. Getting bags delayed worked out well in this case. What is the most people have gotten from AA for delayed bags?