Losing or damaging luggage can quickly spoil your travel experience. Prague Airport has clear guidelines to help you efficiently resolve such issues. Here’s your essential guide on what to do if your baggage is damaged, lost, or delayed.
Reporting Damage or Loss Immediately
Upon noticing luggage damage or loss at Prague Airport:
- Immediately visit the baggage claims counter of the handling company for your flight (information boards at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 will guide you).
- Complete a damage or loss report with the counter representative. You’ll receive a reference number and contact details for follow-up.
Lost Luggage Procedures
At Prague Airport:
- If luggage isn’t delivered upon arrival, report it immediately at the handling company’s counter.
- Provide necessary details: your full name, address, contact number, email, flight number, and detailed luggage description.
- Most lost luggage arrives within a few days on subsequent flights and is usually delivered directly to your address.
Forgotten Items:
- On the plane: Contact the handling company or airline immediately.
- In the airport area: Contact Prague Airport’s Lost and Found department directly.
What Happens if Your Luggage Remains Lost?
- After 21 days, if your luggage isn’t found, it’s officially considered lost.
- According to the Montreal Convention, compensation is available up to approximately EUR 1,250 (CZK 31,000).
Damaged Luggage Claims
- Report luggage damage at the airline’s baggage claims counter immediately upon arrival.
- You have 7 days to submit an official claim to the airline.
- Compensation includes repair costs, partial luggage value, or replacement luggage of similar size and quality.
Steps for Claiming Compensation
- Contact the airline directly, providing your baggage tag, boarding pass, and baggage receipt.
- If the airline does not handle repairs, obtain repairs independently and provide receipts or proof of irreparable damage to the airline.
Preventing Damage to Your Luggage
- Wrap luggage with protective foil available at Prague Airport or do it yourself to prevent scratches and tears.
- Avoid packing prohibited items or improperly secured valuables to prevent claim rejections.
Luggage Insurance: A Smart Precaution
- Consider obtaining travel insurance covering luggage.
- Insurance typically covers losses between CZK 10,000 and CZK 50,000.
Compensation Deadlines to Remember
- Damaged luggage: File claims within 7 days of receipt.
- Delayed luggage expenses: Submit reimbursement requests within 21 days.
- Lost luggage: Officially claim after 21 days from the loss.
Resolving Disputes
If disputes arise:
- Domestic flights: Approach the Czech Trade Inspection Authority for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
- EU/Norway/Iceland flights: Contact the European Consumer Centre (www.evropskyspotrebitel.cz).
By following these guidelines, you can minimize the inconvenience caused by damaged or lost luggage and ensure fair compensation or recovery of your belongings during travel through Prague Airport.