What are my rights for a damaged baggage?

Airlines generally owe repair or compensation for baggage damaged in their custody, subject to liability limits, permitted domestic exclusions, and the applicable international treaty.

What must the airline do for a damaged baggage?

Normal wear and tear — minor scratches, scuffs, and dents — is excluded from liability by most airline policies.

What should I know about damaged baggage compensation?

Report damage promptly and check the airline’s domestic deadline; Montreal-covered baggage damage requires written notice immediately upon discovery and no later than seven days after receipt.

Damaged Baggage Claims & Airline Liability

Airlines generally owe repair or compensation for baggage damaged in their custody, subject to applicable limits and exclusions. Report damage promptly within the applicable deadline.

Generate Damaged Baggage Complaint

Your Rights Under US Rules

What US Department of Transportation rules and airline commitments say for this situation. Use it to frame your request and escalate if needed.

Airlines generally owe repair or compensation for baggage damaged in their custody, subject to liability limits, permitted domestic exclusions, and the applicable international treaty.
Normal wear and tear — minor scratches, scuffs, and dents — is excluded from liability by most airline policies.
Report damage promptly and check the airline’s domestic deadline; Montreal-covered baggage damage requires written notice immediately upon discovery and no later than seven days after receipt.

Sources: DOT: Refunds · DOT: Fly Rights · DOT: Airline Customer Service Dashboard · 14 CFR Part 260

Last reviewed October 6, 2026. General information, not legal advice; rules and airline commitments change.

What to say to the airline

Keep the request factual, specific, and supported by the records you saved.

Report the damage immediately at the airport baggage claim desk and obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) before leaving.

Photograph the damage in detail — bag exterior, interior, and any damaged contents — before handing it over for inspection.

If the airline denies your claim citing 'normal wear and tear,' ask for their written definition of that policy and escalate if the damage is clearly beyond ordinary use.

Avoid: Do not delay reporting damage: report it before leaving if possible; otherwise submit your report promptly within the airline’s applicable deadline.

Avoid: Do not repair or clean the bag before the airline inspects it, as doing so may void your claim.

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