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
Jul 14, 2019, 10:39 am
#77
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Aug 2014
Programs: Top Tier with all 3 alliances
Posts: 11,670
I don't know, you have to look it up or take the risk. Your best bet I feel is original receipt for perished perishable product, if they would even do that, but you should at least try.
Jul 14, 2019, 10:43 am
#78
Join Date: May 2007
Location: Dallas, Texas
Programs: Marriott Lifetime Platinum, HH Diamond, AA Gold
Posts: 43
Jul 16, 2019, 7:31 am
#80
Join Date: Feb 2013
Programs: Hyatt Globalist, MLife Gold, Marriott Gold, HHonors Gold, Caesars Diamond, Amex Plat
Posts: 5,951
Still no updates from AA for an entire week. But got a call today from a train station employee in Switzerland telling me my bag had arrived and to come pick it up. We left that location two days ago and I’ve kept AA apprised of our travel every day via call and DM on Twitter. Unbelievable.
Aug 2, 2019, 1:08 pm
#81
Join Date: Feb 2013
Programs: Hyatt Globalist, MLife Gold, Marriott Gold, HHonors Gold, Caesars Diamond, Amex Plat
Posts: 5,951
I need some advice. Bag delayed 24 days ago and still not delivered (we are now home). Last communication from AA was 10 days ago. Website tracker is useless. I basically just want an update re bag whereabouts and idea of reimbursement timeline, but manager assigned to my "case" will not return my calls or emails and no one else at baggage resolution will assist. I've reached out to them about every 2-3 days with no response whatsoever.
Aug 2, 2019, 3:25 pm
#82
Moderator: American AAdvantage
Join Date: May 2000
Location: NorCal - SMF area
Programs: AA LT Plat; HH LT Diamond, Maître-plongeur des Muccis
Posts: 62,948
I need some advice. Bag delayed 24 days ago and still not delivered (we are now home). Last communication from AA was 10 days ago. Website tracker is useless. I basically just want an update re bag whereabouts and idea of reimbursement timeline, but manager assigned to my "case" will not return my calls or emails and no one else at baggage resolution will assist. I've reached out to them about every 2-3 days with no response whatsoever.
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
American Airlines Central Baggage
4000 East Sky Harbor Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Fax: 480-693-2305
Baggage liability (domestic flights) Expand
What we cover
If your checked bag is lost, damaged or delayed, we will pay the actual value of the losses up to $3,500 (or up to $5,000 if you declare excess value).
Link
What we cover
If your checked bag is lost, damaged or delayed, we will pay the actual value of the losses up to $3,500 (or up to $5,000 if you declare excess value).
Link
Aug 2, 2019, 6:32 pm
#83
Join Date: Feb 2013
Programs: Hyatt Globalist, MLife Gold, Marriott Gold, HHonors Gold, Caesars Diamond, Amex Plat
Posts: 5,951
Hi JDiver, Thanks. That was very kind of you to include all that info. Yes, I've completed the form and submitted my claim (a week ago) with all documentation. It was international so will likely be capped at around $1500. The bagstatus link basically says bag missing (and it has said that the entire time even when they know where it is). I'm frustrated bc they do have the bag and they know its last location (7/23). But they don't seem to be making any effort to return it or communicate with me. While I had to purchase some replacements, there are items in the bag that I would like back. I am trying to figure out how to get the case manager to return my call or email with an update about the bag and/or the claim. 10 days with no reply is horrible customer service.
Aug 2, 2019, 7:06 pm
#84
Join Date: Aug 2018
Location: TPA/MSP
Programs: Bonvoy LT Plat, Hilton Diamond, AA PPlat
Posts: 25
Hi JDiver, Thanks. That was very kind of you to include all that info. Yes, I've completed the form and submitted my claim (a week ago) with all documentation. It was international so will likely be capped at around $1500. The bagstatus link basically says bag missing (and it has said that the entire time even when they know where it is). I'm frustrated bc they do have the bag and they know its last location (7/23). But they don't seem to be making any effort to return it or communicate with me. While I had to purchase some replacements, there are items in the bag that I would like back. I am trying to figure out how to get the case manager to return my call or email with an update about the bag and/or the claim. 10 days with no reply is horrible customer service.
Aug 2, 2019, 7:34 pm
#85
Join Date: Jul 2016
Posts: 152
May I suggest calling Central Baggage (800 866 4010) with your reference number? They are very polite and if you are lucky to get someone helpful, as I was last week, they will pull up your file and update you right away. I was told by them last week that they are unusually backlogged in handling cases right now. My case was resolved the same day when I called in. Good luck.
Aug 3, 2019, 6:38 am
#86
Join Date: Feb 2013
Programs: Hyatt Globalist, MLife Gold, Marriott Gold, HHonors Gold, Caesars Diamond, Amex Plat
Posts: 5,951
May I suggest calling Central Baggage (800 866 4010) with your reference number? They are very polite and if you are lucky to get someone helpful, as I was last week, they will pull up your file and update you right away. I was told by them last week that they are unusually backlogged in handling cases right now. My case was resolved the same day when I called in. Good luck.
Sounds like both of you had reasonably good responses. Maybe I just got assigned poorly.
Aug 11, 2019, 9:03 pm
#87
Join Date: Feb 2013
Programs: Hyatt Globalist, MLife Gold, Marriott Gold, HHonors Gold, Caesars Diamond, Amex Plat
Posts: 5,951
At what point does one escalate? And to whom? Bag missing over a month. No communication from AA in a week. I submitted all claims/documentation 2 weeks ago. Left messages and emailed. Zip.
Aug 20, 2019, 3:21 pm
#89
Join Date: Feb 2013
Programs: Hyatt Globalist, MLife Gold, Marriott Gold, HHonors Gold, Caesars Diamond, Amex Plat
Posts: 5,951
They told me one week ago that they'd resolve it within the week. This length of time seems excessive and unnecessary. I've resigned myself to the fact that it's not going to show up, but I'm extremely frustrated with the time and energy that has gone into getting it resolved.
Aug 20, 2019, 4:18 pm
#90
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Jan 2002
Posts: 44,624
Bag missing for 41 days now. Claim filed 24 days ago. No update except that they don't know where it is.
They told me one week ago that they'd resolve it within the week. This length of time seems excessive and unnecessary. I've resigned myself to the fact that it's not going to show up, but I'm extremely frustrated with the time and energy that has gone into getting it resolved.
They told me one week ago that they'd resolve it within the week. This length of time seems excessive and unnecessary. I've resigned myself to the fact that it's not going to show up, but I'm extremely frustrated with the time and energy that has gone into getting it resolved.