Traveling can be an exciting experience, but the loss or delay of baggage can quickly turn it into a stressful ordeal. Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a passenger can help you navigate this situation more effectively.
Carrier Liability for Baggage Loss
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India has established clear guidelines on airline liability for baggage loss, delay, or damage. These guidelines differ based on whether your travel is domestic or international.
For International Travel:
• Loss, delay, or damage to baggage: The airline’s liability is capped at 1,131 Special Drawing Rights (SDR) per passenger.
• Loss, delay, or damage to cargo: The liability is limited to 19 SDR per kilogram.
For Domestic Travel:
• Loss, delay, or damage to baggage: The carrier’s liability is limited to ₹20,000 per passenger.
• Loss, delay, or damage to cargo: The liability is limited to ₹350 per kilogram.
Additional Compensation Options
Many passengers are unaware that their credit card may offer additional protection in the event of baggage loss. If you book your flight using a credit card, you may be eligible for compensation through the card’s baggage insurance policy. Be sure to check with your credit card provider for the specific terms and coverage.
Tips for Protecting Your Baggage
To minimize the risk of baggage issues and to ensure your belongings are safe during your travels, consider the following tips:
• Do not place valuable items in your checked baggage. Items such as jewelry, important documents, and electronics should be kept in your carry-on bag.
• Check the size of your hand baggage. Ensure that it complies with the airline’s specified dimensions to avoid overloading, which can pose a safety hazard.
• Avoid packing prohibited items such as dry cell batteries, knives, alcohol, sharp instruments, tools, firearms, ammunition, or their replicas in your hand baggage.
• Carry important items in your hand baggage for safety and security, including currency, precious metals, negotiable instruments, securities, and personal identification documents.
Understanding Airline Charges
Before you travel, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the airline’s baggage policies. Make sure to check the following:
• Free baggage allowance.
• Charges for baggage beyond the free limit.
• Charges for special equipment like musical instruments, sports gear, or arms and ammunition.
Compensation for Lost or Damaged Baggage
If your baggage is lost, damaged, or delayed, you should immediately contact the airline and collect a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) before leaving the airport. You will need to file a written claim with the airline to receive compensation.
In the case of damaged baggage, airlines may offer to repair your baggage or provide a replacement. Compensation is provided under the provisions of The Carriage by Air Act, 1972.
IndiGo Airlines: Baggage Delayed & Lost Protection
IndiGo Airlines offers a Baggage Delayed & Lost Protection service, powered by Blue Ribbon Bags, which tracks and expedites the return of delayed baggage. If your baggage is declared lost or not returned within 96 hours from the time your flight lands, you are entitled to compensation.
• Domestic Travel: ₹19,000 per bag.
• International Travel: ₹66,000 per bag.
How It Works:
• A fee of ₹95 for domestic and ₹330 for international travel is charged for this service.
• If your baggage is missing or delayed up to 96 hours upon filing a report, you will be compensated up to ₹19,000 for domestic travel and ₹66,000 for international travel, for up to two bags.
Our Take:
While baggage loss or delay is an inconvenience, knowing your rights and taking the necessary precautions can alleviate some of the stress. Ensure you are aware of the airline’s liability, consider credit card insurance options, and take steps to protect your belongings. By being proactive, you can travel with greater peace of mind.
