On a recent flight from Delhi to Chennai, my checked bag didn’t arrive, leaving me stranded without essentials. The frustration of navigating Air India’s lost baggage desk sparked my dive into India’s baggage claim rules. Lost luggage is a traveler’s nightmare, and with India’s busy airports, mishaps happen. This guide details time limits for claims, DGCA regulations, and compensation policies for major Indian airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and Vistara, helping you reclaim your rights.
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Time Limits for Lost Baggage Claims
In India, airlines typically allow 21 days to locate lost luggage before declaring it officially lost, as per Air India’s policy. Passengers must file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) immediately at the airport’s baggage desk upon noticing missing luggage. For damaged baggage, report within 7 days of receipt with details like photos and receipts. Delayed baggage claims should be filed within 21 days of delivery, per DGCA guidelines. Timely reporting is critical to initiate tracking and ensure eligibility for compensation.
DGCA Rules for Lost Baggage
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) governs baggage compensation in India under the Carriage by Air Act, 1972, incorporating the Montreal Convention. Per Delhi Airport’s passenger charter, airlines are liable for up to 1,131 Special Drawing Rights (SDR, ~USD 1,500) per passenger for lost, delayed, or damaged baggage. The DGCA’s CAR Section 3, Series M, Part VI, caps domestic compensation at INR 20,000 per passenger for baggage issues, though airlines may offer more. Passengers must provide proof of loss, such as receipts, to claim compensation.
Compensation for Delayed and Lost Baggage
For delayed baggage, airlines like Air India offer interim compensation (e.g., ~USD 60) for essentials like clothing and toiletries, requiring receipts for reimbursement, as noted in U.S. DOT guidelines. If luggage is declared lost after 21 days, compensation is based on the baggage’s value, up to 1,131 SDR (~USD 1,500) under the Montreal Convention. Airlines may require itemized lists and proof of purchase. Travel insurance, as highlighted by India Baggage Rules: Travel Insurance, can cover additional costs, easing financial stress.
Major Indian Airlines’ Baggage Policies
Major Indian airlines follow DGCA and international guidelines but have specific procedures:
- Air India: Offers interim relief for delayed baggage and compensates up to USD 1,500 for lost luggage. File a PIR at the airport and track via Air India’s tracker. Contact baggageservices@dnata.com or 1800 452 308 for updates.
- IndiGo: Provides immediate compensation for essentials and processes lost luggage claims per Montreal Convention standards. Check IndiGo’s policy for details.
- Vistara: Compensates for delayed baggage essentials and offers up to 1,131 SDR for lost luggage. Visit Vistara’s baggage page.
- SpiceJet: Offers fixed interim relief and processes lost luggage claims per international guidelines. Recent X posts indicate SpiceJet paid INR 2 lakh for a lost bag with valuables. See SpiceJet’s policy.
- AIX Connect & Air India Express: Both provide interim compensation and follow Montreal Convention limits for lost baggage, per Air India Express.
- Akasa Air: Compensates for essentials during delays and aligns with DGCA standards for lost luggage. Check Akasa Air’s policy.
- Alliance Air & Star Air: Offer interim relief and process claims per international standards, though specific policies are less detailed. Refer to Alliance Air and Star Air.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you have to claim lost luggage in India?
You must file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) immediately at the airport. Airlines allow 21 days to locate luggage before declaring it lost, after which you can claim compensation.
What are the rules for lost baggage in India?
Per DGCA’s Carriage by Air Act, 1972, airlines are liable for up to 1,131 SDR (~USD 1,500) for lost baggage. File a PIR and provide proof of contents within 21 days.
[](https://www.myticketstoindia.com.au/blog/compensation-for-lost-damaged-delayed-baggage-in-india/)Do airlines compensate for delayed baggage in India?
Yes, airlines like Air India and IndiGo offer interim relief (e.g., INR 3,000–10,000) for essentials during delays. Submit receipts within 21 days of baggage delivery.
What are the rules for lost baggage in DGCA?
DGCA’s CAR Section 3, Series M, Part VI, limits liability to INR 20,000 for domestic flights and 1,131 SDR for international flights. Airlines may offer more, requiring proof of loss.
[](https://www.myticketstoindia.com/blog/compensation-for-delayed-damaged-lost-baggage/)What is the new baggage rule in India?
The DGCA’s latest rules, aligned with the Montreal Convention, cap liability at 1,131 SDR (~USD 1,500) for lost baggage, with airlines responsible for tracking and compensating within 21 days.
Who is responsible if my luggage is lost?
The airline handling your baggage is responsible, per Montreal Convention. File a PIR at the airport and follow up with the airline’s baggage desk.
Complaint Letter Example: Lost Baggage in India Flights
