When you're traveling by plane, it can happen that you don't find your luggage when you get off. But don't panic, because in some cases it's just a simple delay. You just have to wait for your luggage to reach its destination. In the meantime, there are rights you can claim when this situation arises. Find out more here.
What the conventions say
Delayed baggage can cause harm to passengers. Fortunately, this situation is governed by two conventions with distinct provisions. These are the Montreal Convention and the Warsaw Convention.
In fact, the two legislations differ in terms of claim deadlines and the cost of compensation. However, until you know which of the agreements applies to your situation, you should request a certificate.
The Montreal Convention
With the Montreal Convention, late baggage must arrive at destination within 21 days. At the end of this period, if your suitcase has still not arrived at your departure point, it will be considered lost. In this case, the airline is liable.
The Warsaw Convention
It applies to countries that have not ratified the Montreal Convention. It provides for a period of 14 days to recover your delayed baggage. After this time, the situation changes and becomes a case of lost baggage. In this case, only the carrier is liable.
Compensation for delayed baggage
If proof of late baggage is provided, you are entitled to claim compensation from the transport company. However, there is no fixed ceiling or flat rate for baggage delay.
Amounts vary, depending on the agreement and the company involved. In addition, you can be reimbursed for the cost of basic necessities and baggage.
Reimbursement of the cost of basic necessities
While waiting for your luggage to be conveyed to the destination airport, the company can provide you with an emergency kit. If the baggage in question contains basic necessities, you can be reimbursed for the purchase costs. To do this, you need to show your purchase invoices as proof. You must not lose your purchase receipts.
Reimbursement of baggage costs
If you pay excess weight for late baggage, you can claim a refund. You must show a receipt certifying that you have paid the excess weight of your suitcase before boarding.
Steps to reimbursement in the event of baggage delay
To claim compensation for your delayed baggage, you need to follow certain steps. First of all, you must complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) form.
Before doing so, however, you must wait for the deadlines set by your company's agreement (14 days or 21 days). Then, you file a claim with the following elements:
- detailed description of the situation ;
- precise list of items contained in the luggage ;
- copy of PIR form.
You will add to these documents, travel receipts and, if possible, receipts for the products in your suitcase.
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