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Damaged Baggage Compensation

Problem with your luggage? You could be entitled to compensation. Learn everything you need to know about claiming compensation for damaged luggage

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What is damaged luggage compensation?

Damage to baggage during air transport is a frequent incident that can lead to material losses. From broken or torn suitcases to destroyed items inside checked baggage, any damage occurring during handling or transport gives rise to a right to compensation for the passenger. Both the Montreal Convention of 1999 and Regulation (EC) No 889/2002 stipulate the airline's obligation to repair the damage caused by damaged baggage, within the limits established by international law.

Important to know

The compensation amount is fixed and doesn't depend on your ticket price. A €50 budget airline ticket can result in the same compensation as a €500 ticket if the flight qualifies.

When are you entitled to compensation for damaged baggage?

To be eligible for compensation for damaged luggage, you must meet certain criteria. Understanding these requirements is crucial to determining whether you have a valid claim.

You CAN claim if:

The damaged baggage was checked-in (hold baggage).
The damage occurred during air transport (between handing over the baggage and its return at the destination).
The incident occurred less than two years from the date of the aircraft's arrival or the date on which the aircraft should have arrived.
The damage was reported within the legal deadline – 7 calendar days from receipt of the baggage.
The damage is visible and can be proven (photos, statements, service assessments).
No prohibited or unpermitted items that could have caused the damage were transported in the baggage.
The incident occurred on an international flight departing from an EU state, a flight operated by an EU airline, or an intra-community flight.

You CANNOT claim if:

Damage caused by an inherent defect of the baggage.
If the loss or damage to baggage was caused by unforeseen and uncontrollable external events.
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What compensation can you receive for damaged baggage?

Under the Montreal Convention, compensation for damaged baggage is limited to 1,288 SDR (Special Drawing Rights) per passenger, equivalent to approximately EUR 1,600, depending on the exchange rate.

REPAIR
Up to €1,600Per passenger
Repair of the damaged luggage.
(e.g. Broken wheels, handles or locks)
MOST COMMON
REPLACEMENT
Up to €1,600Per passenger
Replacement of the luggage if repair is not possible or cost-effective.
(e.g. If repair is not possible or too expensive)
CONTENT
Up to €1,600Per passenger
The value of the destroyed items inside the luggage.
(e.g. Destroyed items inside the luggage)

How to claim compensation for damaged baggage?

To obtain compensation, it is essential that the written complaint is submitted within 7 calendar days of receiving the baggage, and it is necessary to present:

  • The baggage tag;
  • The flight ticket and boarding pass;
  • The PIR (Property Irregularity Report) completed at the airport;
  • Clear photographs of the baggage damage;
  • Repair quote or proof of replacement value;
  • Written correspondence with the airline.
Step 1

File a complaint at the airport

Complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) as soon as you notice the the baggage is damaged.

Step 2

Contact the airline

Send a written request within a maximum of 7 days for damage, from the date the baggage was made available to the passenger, mentioning all the details and attaching the supporting documents.

Step 3

Submit the request

You can use our platform to manage the entire process, including direct negotiations with the carrier or legal action.

Step 4

Receive compensation

After the claim is approved, the amount is transferred directly to your bank account.

Frequently asked questions about compensation for lost connections

Only if the damage is significant and affects the use of the baggage. Minor scratches or bumps are not compensated.

Ideally, you should have proof of purchase, but an assessment of the market value or a repair quote from an authorized service center may also be accepted.

As a rule, the last airline operator is responsible, but there may be situations of joint liability. Collaborating with a specialized service facilitates the identification of the responsible carrier.

Yes, if you have proof of repair and the invoice issued, the company can reimburse the costs, provided that you have submitted the claim within the legal deadline.

You can also claim compensation for damaged goods, but you must prove that they were properly packaged and that the damage occurred during transport.

You have 7 days from receiving your baggage to send the written claim. If you exceed this deadline, the company may refuse the request.

Yes, if repair is impossible or economically unjustified, the compensation may cover the replacement cost with baggage of similar characteristics.

Yes. You can refuse vouchers and have the legal right to request monetary compensation.

It depends on the company, but in general, the response should come within 30 days. If there is no response, you can take action through ClaimBee.

Have more questions? Visit our help page.