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Emergency

Valuables on the plane: liability for loss and theft

If checked luggage is lost or damaged, the airline is liable, but only to a limited extent. Especially for valuables, the compensation is capped. That is why valuables belong in hand luggage. For justified claims, prompt notification matters.

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Your chances of getting your money back

For checked luggage, the airline is liable for loss, damage, or delay under the Montreal Convention, but only up to a maximum amount per passenger. Higher liability exists only with a prior declaration of value against a surcharge.
Valuables such as cash, jewelry, electronics, or medication belong in hand luggage. For such items in checked baggage, compensation is often limited or excluded.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Report immediately

    Report loss or damage while still at the airport and have a damage report (PIR) drawn up.

  2. 2

    2. Meet the deadlines

    Observe the short deadlines for the written damage notification to the airline.

  3. 3

    3. Prove the damage

    Submit proof of contents and value as well as the damage report.

  4. 4

    4. Pursue the claim

    Claim the compensation within the liability limit.

How to spot the scam

  • Valuables are transported in checked baggage.
  • The damage is not reported immediately at the airport.
  • The short notification deadlines are missed.

Frequently asked questions

Is the airline liable for lost valuables?

For checked luggage, the airline is liable under the Montreal Convention, but only up to a maximum amount per passenger. For valuables in the suitcase, compensation is often limited or excluded. That is why valuables belong in hand luggage.

Which deadlines must I observe?

For damage, a short deadline of a few days from receipt of the luggage applies for the written notification; for delay, likewise a short deadline. Lost luggage should be reported immediately at the airport and a damage report drawn up.

How do I get more compensation?

Beyond the standard limit, the airline is only liable if you declared the value before the flight and paid a surcharge. For expensive items, your own baggage or household contents insurance covering such losses can also make sense.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.