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 youre 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 youre 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
Dec 22, 2024 | 6:26 pm
#286
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Programs: AAdvantage Exec Platinum, Hertz #1 Club Gold Five Star, IHG Platinum, Marriott Gold, HHonors Silver
Posts: 2,461
This is a bit confusing...are you saying you bought a ticket FRA-CLT-GSO-DCA-SYD? That seems like a very strange routing. Or am I reading this wrong?
Dec 22, 2024 | 6:32 pm
#287
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 1,348
Dec 22, 2024 | 6:38 pm
#288
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Not here; there!
Programs: AA Lifetime Gold
Posts: 34,984
If the OP's bag was checked through to DCA and he dropped it at the re-check desk past Customs at CLT, then he needs to file a Property Irregularity Report at AA's Baggage Services office at DCA if his baggage is not delivered to him at DCA.
The OP can request that his baggage be delivered to him in Australia, if desired.
The OP can request that his baggage be delivered to him in Australia, if desired.
Dec 23, 2024 | 5:04 am
#289
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Oxford, United Kingdom
Programs: BA Gold/GfL, NH SFC, Hilton Diamond, Radisson VIP, ALL Platinum, IHG Diamond Amb, Marriott Gold
Posts: 1,282
Thanks, yes I add some extra segments to get more Tier Points (BA). However, I need to do something in DC and stay for one night, I asked the check in agent to stop my luggage at DCA.
What I don't understand is that there was an over 3-hour connection time and I could see the bag (AirTag) at the transfer hub, the bag was not loaded onto my flight. The bag seems to be at GSO now, hopefully it gets to DCA in the next 6-7 hours.
Agents at DCA are helpless, I was told that there was no compensation for the inconvenience. I am BA GGL (a bit like CK) flying in Business/First, they could do a meal voucher ($12!!) redeemable at the airport. I wanted to go to my hotel and did not take it, but they didn't even have a washbag for no luggage.
I need some stuff like toiletries, underwear, etc., do AA reimburse?
What I don't understand is that there was an over 3-hour connection time and I could see the bag (AirTag) at the transfer hub, the bag was not loaded onto my flight. The bag seems to be at GSO now, hopefully it gets to DCA in the next 6-7 hours.
Agents at DCA are helpless, I was told that there was no compensation for the inconvenience. I am BA GGL (a bit like CK) flying in Business/First, they could do a meal voucher ($12!!) redeemable at the airport. I wanted to go to my hotel and did not take it, but they didn't even have a washbag for no luggage.
I need some stuff like toiletries, underwear, etc., do AA reimburse?
Dec 23, 2024 | 6:31 am
#290
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: Brighton. UK
Programs: BA Gold / VS /IHG Diamond & Ambassador
Posts: 14,968
As a regular flyer you should know that there is no compensation for a delayed bag.
AA will reimburse reasonable expenses for toiletries and clothing. Keep the receipts as you'll need to upload them with the claim
AA will reimburse reasonable expenses for toiletries and clothing. Keep the receipts as you'll need to upload them with the claim
Jan 18, 2025 | 8:47 pm
#291
Join Date: Sep 2007
Programs: Lost count
Posts: 248
Help please for Baggage misplaced by BA and AA
Not sure whether I should ask this question in AA or BA forum
Between BA and AA they has misplaced both bags of my child(DC) travelling alone.
DC is flying DEL-LHR-CLT-DSM and checked in 2 bags
DEL LHR is BA, LHR CLT DSM is AA codeshare
Both bags didnt arrive at CLT
As per AA tracking Bag 1 is still at LHR, and bag 2 has reached DFW and has been loaded on DSM flight. Air tag also confirms the same.
What are the options does DC have? DC would be landing at DSM tonight.
With whom DC should file complaint? BA or AA
How to get luggage to DC? DC is 100 miles away from DSM
Bag 1 is reaching DSM midnight 3hrs after DCs flight. How will DC get the luggage?
Any intermediate support that DC can get?
What else?
Between BA and AA they has misplaced both bags of my child(DC) travelling alone.
DC is flying DEL-LHR-CLT-DSM and checked in 2 bags
DEL LHR is BA, LHR CLT DSM is AA codeshare
Both bags didnt arrive at CLT
As per AA tracking Bag 1 is still at LHR, and bag 2 has reached DFW and has been loaded on DSM flight. Air tag also confirms the same.
What are the options does DC have? DC would be landing at DSM tonight.
With whom DC should file complaint? BA or AA
How to get luggage to DC? DC is 100 miles away from DSM
Bag 1 is reaching DSM midnight 3hrs after DCs flight. How will DC get the luggage?
Any intermediate support that DC can get?
What else?
Last edited by Evita_FT; Jan 18, 2025 at 9:01 pm
Jan 18, 2025 | 9:15 pm
#292
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: KHOU/KIAH
Programs: AA EXP | Marriott LT Plat | Hyatt Explorist
Posts: 13,273
Baggage is handled by the last carrier. In this case AA.
File a claim with AA. They will deliver the bags.
Also what is DC. Are they going from DSM to DC separately?
File a claim with AA. They will deliver the bags.
Also what is DC. Are they going from DSM to DC separately?
Jan 18, 2025 | 9:17 pm
#293
Join Date: Sep 2007
Programs: Lost count
Posts: 248
Jan 18, 2025 | 9:19 pm
#294
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 1,348
Upon arrival at the final destination (DSM), report missing/delayed bags to the baggage office of the final operating carrier (AA). The pax is asked to provide an address, where the bags will be delivered free of charge once they arrive.
Jan 18, 2025 | 10:00 pm
#295
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Jan 2002
Posts: 46,127
As mentioned - report the missing bag to whichever airline actually operated the flight where the bag failed to be delivered to
As far as compensation goes, the airline is liable to a max of XDR1288 ( approximately $1670 ) for delay/loss of baggage. Keep receipts for anything that you need to purchase and can claim. If you have travel insurance, it will likely be much quicker and easier to claim off of insurance unless your claim will exceed the insurance limits
As far as compensation goes, the airline is liable to a max of XDR1288 ( approximately $1670 ) for delay/loss of baggage. Keep receipts for anything that you need to purchase and can claim. If you have travel insurance, it will likely be much quicker and easier to claim off of insurance unless your claim will exceed the insurance limits
Jan 18, 2025 | 10:12 pm
#296
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Not here; there!
Programs: AA Lifetime Gold
Posts: 34,984
As mentioned - report the missing bag to whichever airline actually operated the flight where the bag failed to be delivered to
As far as compensation goes, the airline is liable to a max of XDR1288 ( approximately $1670 ) for delay/loss of baggage. Keep receipts for anything that you need to purchase and can claim. If you have travel insurance, it will likely be much quicker and easier to claim off of insurance unless your claim will exceed the insurance limits
As far as compensation goes, the airline is liable to a max of XDR1288 ( approximately $1670 ) for delay/loss of baggage. Keep receipts for anything that you need to purchase and can claim. If you have travel insurance, it will likely be much quicker and easier to claim off of insurance unless your claim will exceed the insurance limits
Jan 18, 2025 | 11:22 pm
#297
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Jan 2002
Posts: 46,127
None that I have taken out has been. My Amex travel insurance, for example, will pay out for delayed baggage after 6 hours delay
Jan 18, 2025 | 11:36 pm
#298
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Not here; there!
Programs: AA Lifetime Gold
Posts: 34,984
"Baggage Delay must be reported to the Travel Supplier to be eligible for this coverage.
. . . .
"This benefit is payable on an excess basis over and above any amount due from any other valid or collectible insurance or any other form of reimbursement payable by those responsible for the loss."
(Emphasis added.)
Obviously, coverage terms and conditions can vary from one insurer to another.
Jan 18, 2025 | 11:45 pm
#299
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Jan 2002
Posts: 46,127
Indeed provisions vary. From my Amex the terms state
Claims for lost or delayed luggage must be reported to the transport provider or carrier and a property irregularity report (such as a luggage incident report) obtained where reasonably possible. If a property irregularity report or incident report is not provided,
You must provide evidence that You have taken reasonable steps
to obtain a report, such as emails, call logs or other reasonable evidence. A copy of any property irregularity report obtained from the airline must be supplied to Us together with the following information:
a. full details of the flight (airline, flight numbers, departure airport, destination, scheduled flight times and arrival airport);
b. details of the delay or loss incurred; and
c. full details of expenses for which reimbursement is claimed.
Originally Posted by Amex
Claims for lost or delayed luggage must be reported to the transport provider or carrier and a property irregularity report (such as a luggage incident report) obtained where reasonably possible. If a property irregularity report or incident report is not provided,
You must provide evidence that You have taken reasonable steps
to obtain a report, such as emails, call logs or other reasonable evidence. A copy of any property irregularity report obtained from the airline must be supplied to Us together with the following information:
a. full details of the flight (airline, flight numbers, departure airport, destination, scheduled flight times and arrival airport);
b. details of the delay or loss incurred; and
c. full details of expenses for which reimbursement is claimed.
Jan 18, 2025 | 11:46 pm
#300
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Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Pacific Northwest
Programs: UA Gold 1MM, AS Plat, AA EP, Bonvoy Plat, Hilton Dia, Hyatt Glob, IHG Plat, ...
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