When a bag does not appear on the belt or shows clear damage, go straight to the airline baggage desk in the arrivals hall. Staff there issue a Property Irregularity Report. The form records the bag tag number, a description of the suitcase and its contents, and your contact details. Fill every field carefully and keep a copy of the report number. That number becomes the reference for all later steps.

Tracking starts with the same report. Airlines update the status as the bag moves through their system. You can check progress online with the report number or by calling the baggage service line. Most delayed bags reappear within a few days. If the bag is located, the airline usually delivers it to the address you gave on the form.

Damaged bags need the same report plus photos taken at the airport. Show the damage to the staff before leaving the terminal. They note the condition and may offer an immediate repair or a claim form for later. Keep the bag and all packing materials until the claim is settled.

Compensation follows set limits that depend on the ticket and the region. Delayed bags can bring repayment for essential items bought while waiting. Lost bags open a higher claim for the value of the contents, though proof of purchase helps. Damaged bags may be repaired, replaced or compensated up to a fixed amount. Receipts and a clear list of items make the process faster.

File the full claim as soon as the report is open. Some airlines set a short deadline for the detailed list of contents. Send copies of the Property Irregularity Report, photos and any receipts. Keep the original documents. Follow-up messages should always include the report number so the staff can find the file quickly.

If the bag is still missing after the usual search period, the claim moves to the lost stage. The airline then settles according to the applicable rules. A polite and organised record of every contact shortens the time to a decision. Once the report is filed correctly and the documents are complete, the rest of the process becomes a matter of waiting for the next update.