What are my rights if my luggage is lost?
March 5, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Oliver Breitwieser
Dear lawyer,
My name is David Hohenberg and I recently took a trip during which my luggage was lost. I am very concerned about this, as my luggage contained important personal items, as well as clothing and other necessary items. This has not only caused inconvenience during my trip, but also significant stress and financial losses.
The airline I traveled with has not provided me with clear information on the whereabouts of my luggage and how long it will take to be found. I feel powerless and frustrated, as I do not know what rights I have in this situation and how to proceed in order to receive adequate compensation for the loss of my luggage.
Could you please explain to me what rights I have as a passenger when my luggage is lost? Are there any legal provisions or regulations that can assist me in this situation? Is the airline obligated to pay me compensation and if so, how much? What steps should I take to enforce my rights and retrieve my lost luggage?
I would greatly appreciate your assistance in this matter and any information and advice you could provide to help resolve my situation. Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
David Hohenberg
Dear Mr. Hohenberg,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your lost luggage during your recent trip. It is understandable that this has caused significant stress and inconvenience, especially when important personal belongings and clothing are involved. I would like to assist you in this situation by providing you with information on your rights as a passenger and possible actions to enforce these rights.
If your luggage is lost during a flight, as a passenger you are entitled to compensation under the Montreal Convention. This international regulation states that airlines are liable for the loss or damage of luggage and must pay the passenger appropriate compensation. The amount of compensation depends on the value of the lost luggage and the costs incurred for replacement items.
It is important that you immediately submit a written report to the airline after discovering the loss of your luggage. In this report, you should provide all relevant information about your luggage and the lost items. The airline is then obligated to initiate a search for your luggage and keep you informed of the current status.
If the luggage is not found within a reasonable period of time, you are entitled to compensation. This may include both the value of the luggage and any additional costs for necessary replacements. It is advisable to keep all receipts for replacement purchases in order to claim compensation.
If the airline refuses to provide you with appropriate compensation or wants to leave you to deal with your complaint alone, you can contact a travel law attorney. An attorney can assess your claims, take legal action, and assist you in enforcing your rights against the airline.
Overall, it is important that you know your rights as a passenger and actively assert them in order to receive appropriate compensation for the loss of your luggage. I hope this information helps you and wish you success in resolving your issue.
Sincerely,
Oliver Breitwieser
