What to do now
- Keep the report and check that the details are correct.
- Send the written claim with evidence of damage, loss or reasonable expenses.
- Retain submission confirmations and the actual return date.
What can change your rights
For Montreal-covered international baggage, write about damage within seven days of receipt and delay within 21 days of the bag being made available. Those deadlines are not a universal substitute for US domestic claim procedures. File promptly and check the carrier's instructions. A report required for a delayed-bag fee refund also does not establish every other loss.
Evidence to keep
- Your booking and boarding passes; keep these in your own records.
- Bag tags, a mishandled baggage report and dated photographs.
- Itemized receipts, airline messages and proof that your written claim was sent.
Common questions
Does AeroDue send the claim?
No. Use the template and submit to the airline directly. You do not need to upload your documents to AeroDue for a diagnostic.
Can I wait until my travel ends?
That may miss a deadline. Report and send the relevant written claim promptly, while you check your rights.
Written baggage claim template
Use the actual facts and send through the airline's official claims channel. Meet the applicable deadline even if you have not finished a diagnostic.
Subject: Baggage claim — flight [number], [date] On flight [number], from [origin] to [destination], my checked bag with tag [reference] was [damaged / delayed / lost]. I filed a report on [date], reference [claim number]. The bag was returned on [date, if applicable]. I request [repair / replacement / assessment of documented losses or expenses]. I attach photos, evidence of value and relevant itemized receipts totaling [amount and currency]. Please acknowledge this written claim and provide the next steps in writing. [Name and contact details for the airline's response]
Official sources
- US Department of Transportation — lost, delayed or damaged baggage
- Montreal Convention — Articles 17, 19, 22, 31 and 35
- ICAO — revised Montreal Convention liability limits, effective 28 December 2024
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.
Check my case
Use AeroDue to organize possible rights and check your case without an account or an email requirement for the diagnostic. You can file directly with the airline. If an appropriate external provider is available, the checker shows that option separately from the assessment.
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