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Passenger rights

My baggage arrived damaged. Am I entitled to compensation?

You may be entitled to repair, replacement or compensation for a proven loss. For checked baggage covered by the Montreal Convention, damage while it was in the airline's custody can create liability. Report it immediately, photograph it and send a written claim within seven days of receiving the bag. A Property Irregularity Report is not automatically a complete claim.

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What to do now

  1. Show the damage at the airline's baggage desk before leaving and keep the report.
  2. Photograph the bag, tag and damaged components; retain evidence of value and repair estimates.
  3. Send your written claim within the applicable deadline and keep proof of submission.

What can change your rights

Baggage damage does not have the fixed compensation amounts used for flight disruption. The loss, prior condition and any inherent defect matter. Where Montreal applies, the normal baggage liability limit has been 1,519 SDR per passenger since 28 December 2024. It is a liability ceiling, not a promised payout or a fixed sterling amount. Cabin baggage and special declarations of value need separate assessment.

Evidence to keep

  • Booking confirmation and boarding passes; keep these in your own records.
  • Baggage tags, an irregularity report and dated photographs.
  • Itemised receipts, airline messages and proof that your written claim was sent.

Common questions

I only noticed the damage at home. Can I still claim?

Write immediately and within seven days of receipt where that rule applies. Explain when you found it and retain evidence; acceptance is not automatic.

Is a PIR enough?

Do not rely on it alone. Send a written claim describing the damage, requested remedy and evidence, and keep the acknowledgement.

Written baggage claim template

Replace the fields with the actual facts and send through the airline's official claims channel. Do not wait for a diagnostic before meeting a deadline.

Subject: Baggage claim — flight [number], [date]

On flight [number], from [origin] to [destination], my checked bag with tag [reference] was [damaged / delayed / lost]. I reported this on [date], reference [PIR or claim number]. The bag was returned on [date, if applicable].

I request [repair / replacement / assessment of documented losses or expenses]. I attach photographs, evidence of the items' value and relevant itemised receipts totalling [amount and currency]. Please acknowledge this written claim and explain the next steps in writing.

[Name and contact details for the airline's reply]

Official sources

This answer explains general rules. Your route, travel date and facts determine which rules apply. AeroDue's checker only confirms a supported conclusion when the facts and verified legal coverage are sufficient. AeroDue does not receive or file your airline claim and does not guarantee payment.

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Use AeroDue to organise possible rights and check your case without creating an account or providing an email for the diagnostic. You can claim directly with the airline. If a suitable external provider is available, the checker presents that option separately from its assessment.

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