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Suitcase Lost Or Damaged After Flight - How To Claim Compensation

Info from Spanish Consumer Organisation FACUA.

FACUA-Consumers in Action reminds all passengers who have suffered the loss, delay in delivery or breakage of luggage on an airplane flight that are entitled to compensation of up to 1,353 euros, depending on the route.

The association advises that, at the same time they collect the checked luggage, users check that it is in perfect condition and without damage. If not, it is most convenient to immediately go to the counters of the airline with which the trip was contracted – or the handling company if the first does not have offices at the airport – and ask for the so-called “Parte de Irregularidad de Equipaje” Baggage Irregularity Part (PIR, for its acronym in English). This document collects in writing that there is an incident. In case the luggage does not appear, this report must also be completed.

The PIR is of great importance, since many airlines do not attend to claims on luggage if users do not present it. Therefore, you should not leave the airport without a copy of it.

For national flights, you need to claim for damaged or lost luggage within 10 days of receipt of the damaged luggage, or the date you were supposed to receive the luggage.

For international flights, you have up to 7 days to claim for any damaged luggage. For delayed luggage, up to 21 days. Once 21 days have passed, the luggage is deemed to be lost and not just delayed.

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.

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