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Comments (64)
Print
Save/ShareMore than 90 readers have commented on our recent blog post "Has the TSA stolen from you?" Many have had precious items vanish from checked luggage.
And many of you are demanding answers: How many victims are there? Who's to blame? And what can victims do?
We've posted the TSA's response here.
What about the perspective of the airline's baggage workers? What do they think about thefts from checked luggage?
I recently interviewed Scott T. Mueller, who worked his way up from baggage handler to manager of central baggage systems for Midwest Airlines (though the opinions he expresses are his own and not that airline's). He's the author of The Empty Carousel: A Consumer's Guide to Checked and Carry-on Luggage, and he also has a blog. He knows a lot about how to handle lost, pilfered, and damaged baggage claims.
Do airline workers steal as much—or as little—as TSA inspectors?
The short answer is that, sadly, there are bad apples in both groups—the airline and the TSA. Both groups of workers are subject to background checks, but bad apples do manage to slip through and get hired.
Here's the long answer: There's a large difference though between TSA workers and airline workers. Namely, the circumstances are easier for a TSA worker to act alone when committing a crime. TSA workers have a legal right to open bags, while airline workers do not--so it's less likely that someone walking by will stop and question a TSA worker.
Second of all, airline workers generally don't have much "alone time" with bags. In fact, the working conditions for airline workers make it difficult for any one person to act as a thief on their own. That's why we always hear about organized criminal rings at airports, rather than individual thieves.
Just picture the baggage hold area, as a for instance. That's where bags are stored before they're loaded onto planes. This place is a beehive of activity. You'd need your coworkers to help you out if you were going to steal anything.
Contrast that image with the typical TSA inspection area. It's usually an area out of the eyes of ordinary citizens, with inspectors working without co-workers watching over their shoulder.
Which situation is the better one for a thief? The typical TSA workplace setting for inspections permits more theft than the typical airline workplace.
[Editors note: The TSA disagrees with this point of view. The agency's spokesperson says, "searches are conducted often in public areas by well-supervised security officers who work in teams." The TSA spokesperson also says, "We estimate that for every TSA employee that touches a bag, six to ten airline or airport employees and contractors touch the same bag out of the view of passengers."]
The TSA publishes statistics on loss claims. They say, "Of the roughly 2 billion passengers who have traveled since TSA assumed responsibility for screening in 2003, approximately 67,000 passenger loss claims have been filed to date. That is well under one hundredth of one percent, or a claim rate of 3 per 100,000 passengers." Is that an acceptable rate of loss?
Well, before I answer that question, I'd point out that you can see part of those TSA loss reports for yourself. A Kansas City Fox news station made a TSA report public a couple of months ago, posting the data on its website. The TSA report says that about 14,000 travelers a year report to the TSA that items were lost from their luggage. (See the report here.)
But back to your question: I think that's a high number. Unnecessarily high. That's not a perfect number, either, of course. On the one hand, that statistic only counts people who bothered to fill out reports with the TSA, so it might not give you the full picture. On the other hand, the statistic also counts claims of reported lost items. Travelers who later realize that they misplaced an item instead of lost it probably never go back to the TSA and tell them that the claim is resolved.
If the TSA bears a heavy responsible for thefts, why don't the airlines complain?
The airlines did complain to the TSA in 2002 when the problems first appeared. The TSA took some measures to increase oversight of its workers. But the problems are still continuing. You know, the typical large airline spends at least half a million dollars a year in costs related to baggage that doesn't arrive in tact.
You would think the airlines would care about saving money and providing a good experience to win repeat business from customers. My guess is that, in general, the airline execs are distracted by soaring fuel prices, disputes with unions, and other worries.
Plus, in May 2006, when Congress held hearings about problems with airline baggage systems, the lawmakers concluded that there was no cost effective rule or policy change that could fix the problems. I've spoken with the chairman of the aviation committee. I'd like to convince him that we need to get several messages out to travelers, and one of those messages is that travelers should not pack their valuables in checked luggage. If it really matters to you, don't put it in a checked bag.
[Editors note: The TSA website warns travelers: "NEVER place jewelry, cash, electronics, or fragile items in your checked baggage."]
Do the airlines keep track of how many items are reported stolen and how many items are proven to be stolen?
Yes. I once met with my fellow representatives of other airline baggage systems at the offices of the Air Transport Association (ATA). The major airlines shared numbers of reported lost items, lost bags, and other baggage statistics. We all said that we had seen huge spikes in reported thefts after the TSA began inspecting bags. The ATA took that info to the TSA. Some changes were made by the TSA, but my understanding is that the number of reports of lost and stolen items remains high.
Have the airlines told the media how many passengers report stolen, lost, misplaced or damaged items?
No.
If you believe that something has been stolen from your bag, what should you do?
If there is a slip of paper in your bag saying that the TSA inspected it, then you should file an online claim form through the TSA website. If there's no slip of paper, file directly with the airline instead. You should act quickly, though. Airlines generally require you to file a claim for a "pilfered" item within 48 hours of landing. As a general rule, you can file over the phone.
Why bother filing a police report for an expensive item?
First, if you're filing a claim with the TSA, the form will ask you for an incident report number from a police report. By filing a police report and putting that number on your claim form, you may increase the chances that the agency will take your claim seriously.
Second, it's important to file a police report because it's the best way to help catch crooks. Let's say there's a criminal ring stealing bags. And let's say they get caught one day. You'll improve your chances of getting your goods back if you've filed a report. And you'll make it much easier for the cops to prosecute the case. I personally saw this when a ring of thieves at a Boston airport was discovered. Someone in the suburbs opened up a storage locker and discovered a bunch of luggage and tipped off the police.
If you think you've been robbed of electronics and jewelry, is there anything else you can do?
Yes, you should call the airport's law enforcement office at both your departure airport and your arrival airport, filing reports for stolen goods. You can find the phone numbers by calling each airport's main line and asking the operator to speak to the office that handles airport law enforcement.
Should the TSA require every inspector to put their ID numbers on those slips of paper left in bags? Wouldn't that help the TSA trace who opened any given bag?
You're asking about those paper sheets that say something like, "your bag has been inspected." If I was a thief working for the TSA, I would definitely "forget" to put the slip of paper in a bag I had stolen from. Why draw attention to the fact that the TSA had anything to do with the bag?
MORE FROM BUDGET TRAVEL
Confessions Of... A Baggage Handler
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I have had the TSA steal things from my bag on numerous occasions. The most ridiculous item stolen was candy. I brought back from Bali some chocolate Silver Queen bars that my mother loves. This was a package of chocolate bars all individually wrapped. When I left Phoenix for my domestic flight, upon my arrival in SFO, the package was opened, and someone had half eaten a couple of the chocolate bars. I work for the airline I was flying, and after having bags pop open and having to put things back in bags, none of us has any interest in looking through other peoples dirty drawers, nor do we have time. However, we have seen some of the winners hired by the TSA, and they do routinely open bags, as is part of their job. Their job does not entail, however, parading around wearing underwear on their heads, and eating my candy.
Posted By stefanie on May 7, 2008, 3:51 PM
Airport workers and possibly TSA agents / airport police go though a scanner process upon arrival at the airport BUT just walk right out at the end of the day. Thus no one checks what booty they have stuffed in their pockets that they have managed to pilfer throughout the day.
I guess that is what they mean by trickle-down economics.
Posted By Roger on May 10, 2008, 12:25 AM
Two days ago I flew home from Ft. Walton Beach, Fl, connection in Charlotte, when I arrived in Indianapolis my bags did not arrive with me. The bag arrived the next afternoon, which a number of items missing. I called USAirways and was told I had to send in a written form to submit claim, they would not talk to me on the phone at all. I plan to mail in the paperwork tomorrow, but am not expecting a reply. Although the items are not high value, the replacement will be quite bothersome (computer power cords, GPS mount, iPOD cable, etc.). I didn't have a TSA tag or note in my luggage, so I am assume it was a worker that had sticky fingers.
Posted By sandi on May 11, 2008, 8:23 PM
Anyone who has the opportunity and/or right to "inspect" passengers' bags should be inspected themselves before they leave the airport. Even if it were a random inspection, the fact that a thief could be discovered may discourage some of them from stealing.
Posted By Loretta on May 12, 2008, 1:55 PM
My cell phone charger was removed while in my checked baggage on a AA flight from Salt Lake City to Wash. DC last Feb. I complained and was pretty much told 'oh well' no one cared!!!
Posted By Marcy Underdahl on May 12, 2008, 8:02 PM
In hurry to return the rental car and catch the plane I put my Canon 20D digital camera and expensive L-series under my suit coat. We flew out of Chicago to Ontario without getting off the airplane. Late at night when I finally arrived home the expensive camera was gone. TSA says if no slip in the bag they did not inspect and claimed they have video tape...so TSA put the blame on Southwest Airlines baggage handlers. TSA claims it happens a lot at Southwest Midway Airport. Southwest said they were sorry. sent a flight coupon for $100 and I tore it up because I do not intend to fly Southwest ever again unless they return my camera or are the only airlines left flying.
Posted By T Joe Willey on May 21, 2008, 3:14 PM
from today's SF Chronicle Datebook:
Country Joe McDonald was in Canada the first weekend in June playing a benefit for Corey Glass, who fled to Canada to escape being court-martialed for desertion from Iraq. Glass is being deported to the United States.
When McDonald returned, his baggage claim ticket for his guitar case had "Luv Yr Stuff" written on it in marker, apparently by a baggage handler. But when he opened the case, it looked as though his 1960s Gibson guitar had been bashed with a hammer. A supervisor at United told him, "I have decided not to file your claim for damage as the case is not really harmed ... just the guitar."
An airline representative confirms this practice, although she says the situations are reviewed "on a case-by-case basis .... The airlines do not open bags and inspect them. Has your reader filed a complaint with the TSA? That is what we recommend travelers do in these scenarios."
Posted By Wednesday on June 10, 2008, 2:49 PM
Monday (9-22-08) I flew southwest airlines from San Diego to Birmingham,Al- Did not open my bags immediately. Opened them yesterday to find all three of my expensive purses hand been stolen. Pass the 48 hour deadline to report a theft I don't know what to do? can anyone help Please.
Posted By Emonakia on September 28, 2008, 4:23 PM
My husband and I flew home on Southwest from Reno to Tulsa this past Wednesday (Oct.15) to find that my JBL IPOD dock, charger and remote had been stolen out of my bag. I was so careful to pack it so that if the bag was "dropped" or anything it wouldn't be hurt. Who knew that a thief would open my bags to steal it. We called to report it but the message says "unless your item is recovered you will not receive a call back from us." How can it be recovered if it wasn't lost..."IT WAS STOLEN." Any ideas?
Posted By Diane on October 20, 2008, 7:54 AM
My family and I just returned from a wonderful vacation to Florida (Sun, Oct 19th). We flew direct with Southwest from Orlando to Providence. We checked 6 items - 2 large suitcases, 2 duffle bags, a boxed baby seat and an infant car seat and base. After arriving in Providence we went to retrieve our luggage. Everything arrived BUT one large suitcase. My husband immediately went to the baggage claim service and reported our suitcase missing (one other couple was missing a stroller). We were told that there was a problem with the luggage belt in Orlando and our suitcase would most likely arrive on the next flight later that afternoon and would be delivered directly to our home. The next morning we received a phone call from Southwest stating that our bag had been received in Providence and was badly damaged. The SW rep said she was taking everything out of the damaged bag because the zipper was practically ripped off and putting all of things into a new suitcase (courtesy of SW). Later that evening, I was thrilled to receive my new suitcase with what I thought was all of my belongings it in. When I opened the suitcase it was 3/4 empty - WHERE WAS ALL OF MY STUFF??? ALL of my 2 year olds clothes were gone, a giant shamu stuffed animal from Sea World, a beach towel, some of my husbands clothes, and many other miscellaneous items. Imagine how much you would pack for your toddler for a 1 week vacation...that's a lot of clothes!!! GONE!
I called SW again and spoke to a very rude woman by the name of Samantha who was no help to me at all. She never once said "gee I am really sorry or I'm sorry to hear that". She kept saying "you were advised that your bag was damaged". Yes, I was. But I wasn't advised that I WAS ROBBED. I called back later in the evening because I just could not stop thinking..."I know my bag was damaged but where was my stuff? where is it all?". The next SW rep was much nicer and told me that they have no idea of the whereabouts of my belongings and that she really doubted anyone would steal my things. She said "I dont want to hurt your feelings or offend you but - we don't want your stuff." BUT I DO!!!
She also mentioned that depending on where exactly the damage happened (on the belt, in the plane, etc.) my belongings could have ended up on the tarmat somewhere and are now lying in a field somewhere. WHAT???
Really? Is this acceptable? They dont have to be accountable for our personal items? Isn't it their responsibilty to ensure that we arrive safely to our destinations WITH our items?
I am disgusted! I realize I am fortunate enough to only be missing a lot of children's clothes and I am sure other travelers have lost a lot more valuable possessions - but these are MY things and I would like them back!!!
Oh, she did also mention that sometimes when they find belongs lying about, since they don't know which bag they go with - they scoop them up into a clear plastic bag and ship them off to Southwest in Dallas. They have a giant warehouse where all of these lost items live. Sort of like an island of misfit unclaimed personal belongings. Once they receive your list of claimed missing items, they will try to "match-up" with the contents of the bags.
I won't hold my breath. I hope some other child out there is enjoying all of the adorable clothes that I worked hard to pay for.
Posted By Dee on October 21, 2008, 2:01 PM
I find that the TSA steals from my bags all the time. I travel with tools for work and apparently they think I won't miss utility knifes, hammers, and tape measures, because I lose them on almost every trip. They always leave a nice note to let me know...
Posted By Tristan on November 16, 2008, 6:29 PM
United Airline luggage check without TSA tag. Two items were stolen- camera & jewelry. Flight was from San Francisco to Rochester.
Be careful while packing for the Holidays, thief may see this as an opportunity for lots of goodies.
Posted By DH on December 18, 2008, 2:09 PM
I had all me x-MAS presents stolen from my checked bag..after being charged $40 to check it.. what the fuck?? now the airline company claims thewy r not responsible.. what the fuck is wrong with this world??
where are our rights citzens of this fucking country??
Posted By Gabriel Melo on December 19, 2008, 10:36 PM
I just flew to my parents' in Harrisburg, PA from Phoenix through Philadelphia. We immediately went to NJ to visit family and I am now back with my bag and realized that someone stole three Wii games that I bought for my son for Christmas (won't see him until Sunday). It is past the 48 hour window and reading these comments, I have no faith that my efforts to retrieve the games will come to fruition. I only get to see my son twice a year and someone stole the gifts I bought for him. I've never before felt the rage I now feel.
Posted By DS on December 26, 2008, 2:20 PM
On the 27th December 2008 I boarded flight PK 238 from Peshawar to Dubai. The scheduled departure time was 16:30 PST although the flight was delayed by one hour and left at 17:30 PST, the flight arrived at Dubai International Airport at 19:30 local time.
When I collected my luggage in Dubai I noticed that the zip to my suitcase had been deliberately tampered with. On closer inspection I found that a 6 Tolas Gold Jewelery set which I has packed inside in the centre of my case, inside a secure box was missing. It is my opinion that this item was deliberately removed from my suitcase, because the box in which the jewellery was contained was still present inside the suitcase with a damaged lock and the zip to the suitcase had been deliberately damaged to gain access to its contents. The jewelery box was returned to the inside if the suitcase and no other items within the suitcase were missing. It is my opinion that there is no conceivable way that the jewelery could have been lost through the normal processes of luggage transit and that these items were deliberately taken from my case whilst checked in under the care of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).
I originally bought this item to the attention of PIA as soon as I realised the items were missing and I sent a letter to the head offices of PIA on 28.12.2008. I had an email reply from Capt S. Bayer Masood on 31.12.2008 informing me that PIA were looking into the matter and an immediate investigation was to be conducted into this case. In the meantime I have written to Capt S. Bayer Masood on two occasions (31.12.2008 & 03.1.2009) to be updated with the status of the investigation but so far I have heard nothing.
Muhammad Ayaz
Dubai,UAE.
Posted By Muhammad Ayaz on January 5, 2009, 6:22 AM
Flew back from northern Indiana on United Airlines on the night of January 4th from South Bend through O'Hare on to Kansas City. Noticed that when I went to retrieve my checked through bag that it was closed on a different side. Opened it when I got home and found that my digital camera with all my photos were gone! Though it was a fairly expensive camera I would gladly forget it to have my memory card back!! Hard lesson learned - I was told that there was supposed to be security cameras...yeah right. Contacted Lost & Found at KCI who took all my information and would follow-up with the other airport baggage handlers; today is the last day of the 48 hours and I have yet to hear back. Not sure if they are not paying the handlers enough or it is simply people making poor choices at others' expense. Was my first Christmas with my fiancé, guess that is what makes this so difficult.
thanks for the opportunity to speak-out.
Patrick Harless
Gardner, Kansas
Posted By Patrick Harless on January 7, 2009, 5:46 PM
I too have learned the hard lesson of not packing valuables. I flew from Portland, OR to Wichita, KS on American Airlines. I packed my Nintendo Wii in my luggage because it wouldn't fit in my 2 carry-ons and I had done it many times before and never had a problem. When I arrived in Wichita, my bag came down the belt and it was half open with my belt hanging out and dragging on the belt. I knew as soon as I saw it that my Wii would be gone and sure enough, it was. I spoke with the airline representative who told me to call customer relations but she gave me a heads up that they would not be responsible for stuff stolen from luggage. I spoke with the baggage supervisor who told me that he didn't see anyone touch my stuff and said I should contact the police. I spoke with the local office who told me that I could have a case opened but I would need the serial numbers and even if I knew them, nothing would probably ever happen other than me opening a case. I told the airlines that they are responsible for my luggage from the time I leave it in their care until the time they return it....hoewver, they don't see it that way. I couldn't even get a refund of my $15 luggage charge. From now on I am getting the TSA approved locks and I will stand and watch them lock my luggage after it goes through the x-ray machine and I will NEVER pack anything other than clothes in my luggage again.
Posted By Jason Marlin on February 1, 2009, 2:33 AM
Even clothes in your luggage will be stolen if they want it. My sons Italian leather coat, another jacket and a pair of jeans were stolen from his girlfirends bag on a flight from Las Vegas to Boston Tues Feb 17. The airlines claims TSA did it even though there was no "notice" of inspection in the bag. When we tried to download the claim form on the TSA site, there was an error... "the document was damaged and couldn't be repaired". Everything seems to be "damaged". The entire system is damaged... in that they allow employees to take what they want from travelers bags and not claim any culpability.
Posted By Linda Reynolds on February 19, 2009, 11:27 AM
Jet Blue only gives you FOUR hours to report a stolen item. And you MUST do it at the airport for it to "count." So even if you land at 11:45 pm, you must discover the missing item and make it back to the airport (and find an employee to take your claim) by 3:45 am. They do not accept phone calls or online claims for such items.
Way to take no responsbility whatsoever, Jet Blue. Even crappy airlines like Northwest give you 24 hours to discover the theft!
Posted By Monica on March 1, 2009, 12:50 PM
Has anyone stopped to think that if TSA employees are stealing from bags, how little would it take to bribe them if you wanted to get dangerous materials onto a plane? Aren't these "thieves" supposed to be our last line of defense when it comes to terrorism in our airports?
They should have to change into coveralls before entering the airport leaving all personal items behind and then go through screening when exiting the airport to make sure they have no personal items on them. Make them stick the stuff somewhere the sun doesn't shine if they want to thieve.
Posted By TJ on April 16, 2009, 4:25 PM
We took UA914 from SFO to Paris, France on 05/05/2009. Upon arrival, my husband's bag had an inspection tag, and nothing was missing. Mine had no tag, and my new REI backpack was gone. I see from the above comments that my loss was minor in comparison to others, but certainly irritating as we had to buy another one right away.
Posted By MarianneH on June 1, 2009, 9:52 PM
Took flight from Pittsburgh to Seattle via Midway on June 19th on Southwest. Out of 3 checked in bags, Southwest lost two. When the bag arrived today, my camcorder was missing from checked in bag. There wasn't any TSA notice in the bag, so assume someone from baggage handling stole the camcorder. Southwest just says electronics items are not covered :( I wish I knew it beforehand.
Posted By KRaj on June 21, 2009, 1:00 PM
it's nice that the airline informs you AFTER you check your bags that they don't cover electronics. on my honeymoon in st thomas last week i discovered my expensive DSLR camera was stolen from my checked luggage (along with a couple of other electronics). american airline's response was 'oh well' ... and they won't even give me a copy of the incident report we filed with them! (because the 'claim' wasn't accepted by them!) but they hope we'll fly american airlines again soon - ROTFLMAO!
Posted By stephanie on June 22, 2009, 7:17 PM
AA flight from Dallas to Miami, and then to Sao Paulo, yesterday. Four wii games have been removed from my checked bag.
That's not my first problem with American Airlines, but maybe it was the last, once I won't fly this company again.
Posted By Ricardo on July 12, 2009, 5:31 PM
Going through "Loss" Vegas my gamble was entrusting luggage to United. Missing was an iPod, $250 voice recorder, a favorite watch, and a top of the line Leatherman knife, all of which I foolishly put in my checked luggage.
On the short flight from San Francisco to Los Angeles, United liberated me of my favorite 40DDD bras! It costs too much to fly with "United."
Posted By Gayle on August 1, 2009, 2:50 PM
I returned home to Cayman after a trip to Houston. I checked a rubbermaid tub with various items. I like to bring back things from the States in these tubs because they are useful here (hurricane seasons!) and things do not get broken in them. However, I usually pack stuff nobody would care to steal in them. After arriving back in Cayman, so much 'crap' was missing. I mean nothing of any value, really:
1. 3 boxes of baby wipes
2. 3 (out of 4) plastic dollar store glasses (don't know why they just didn't take all 4!)
3. one pink flip-flop (paid 2.00 for them at Walmart)
4. 2 xs T-shirts
5. 65.00 bucks worth of Bath/Body Works stuff
6. A little whicker basket from the dollar store.
7. Toothbrush
8. Oatmeal pies (can't find them in Cayman often!)
Now, I guess the Bath stuff is pretty tempting for a thief, but the other crap? Go figure.
Posted By W. Hydes on August 3, 2009, 1:14 PM
This is exactly why we do not need TSA. It is a waste of our taxpayer dollars as well as a constant threat to our property. These people are supposed to help us feel more comfortable about traveling on airlines because of terrorism. I say these TSA and airline companies are just as bad as terrorists, because everyone has been violated by these people. I say get rid of em, we dont need them and this fake sense of security!!!! I take only my carry on just for this reason, I cant trust others and after reading this I am glad i dont.
Posted By Mr MOJO RISING on August 10, 2009, 10:14 PM
I just returned from Paris through Miami and then to Los Angeles. At Miami we had to go through customs and after that, our bags were taken from the American Airline agents to continue to LAX.
Both my friend and I has TSA locks on our luggage, and both were opened and a note left in English that the bags were inspected. Once we got home, we both found out that items purchased as gifts, chocolate and french coffee were missing. The only ones with keys to these TSA locks are TSA. We believe the items were stolen during our transfer from Miami to LAX. Warning, TSA locks don't work to prevent thief from TSA inspectors.
Posted By Tasha on November 1, 2009, 6:09 PM
TSA Locks don't work. Not if the TSA employees steal stuff from inside your suitcase. 2 years ago, my CD with Disney pictures was stolen from my suitcase. Last month from LV to Honolulu, my new bungee cords in a package were stolen. We don't need TSA if they steal from us like we wouldn't know it.
Posted By Paul on December 10, 2009, 11:59 AM
Last night I arrived at LAX from SJC on Southwest Airlines (flight #3046.) When I opened my luggage my purse was not in there. I had placed it behind the netting, behind my clothes. The purse was empty, but STRILL they STOLE my purse-WHICH ON IT'S OWN WAS NOT CHEAP! I dont even want to mention the designer because I may just go crazy. I didn't think this was a big deal. However, now I know. There are thieves that work for the airline and/or for TSA.
Posted By Cynthia on December 14, 2009, 3:24 PM
On march 23rd I flew American airlines from Miami to Jfk in new york. They said at the gate my carry on was too big and made me check it when plenty of people had bigger bags than mine. When I got to New York my $250 Maui jim sunglasses were missing. The airline says they are not responsible for sun glasses. It was clearly a baggage handler because the bag only went from the gate to the plane and the plane to the belt.
Posted By Howie on March 26, 2010, 5:42 PM
April 11th I arrived back to Minneaplis, MN from Nassau, Bahamas via AirTran Airways. I had a pair of Ray-Ban polarized Wayfarer sunglasses ($189) and a pair of Maui Jim replacement lenses ($80) in a Ray-Ban case zippered in the top flap of my suitcase. When I got home at midnight that evening and started unpacking, something told me to open the Ray-Ban case. I opened it up, and both the sunglasses AND replacement lenses were missing. I called AirTran baggage claim this morning (as I am still within the supposed 48 hours) and was told they could do a "courtesey claim" for me since I was not within the required 24-hour claim period. This meaning, they will look into it but will not be compensating me in any way. Its bullcrap. I will never, ever fly AirTran again.
Also, if anyone has any information on if the required claim period is actually 24 hours now and not 48 as it used to be, I would greatly appreciate it!!!
Posted By Nicole on April 13, 2010, 10:59 AM
This doesn't make sense. Here we all are, griping about how these companies scam us, steal from us, and yet, we do nothing about it. We need to stand up to these companies! We need to gather, form a group, form a party and get this under control. The TSA isn't doing it. We need better security on these people. One person mentioned that the workers should have to change into different clothing, I say strip them daily. I say that they need someone standing with them daily. They need more security cameras watching them daily. If tighter security doesn't work, then we need to let them know that 15000 people get robbed by airports yearly. I don't want to be a statistic anymore. I want to be someone who stands out and says "ITS NOT OKAY TO STEAL MY STUFF, IT'S NOT OKAY TO STEAL CAMERAS, CLOTHING AND JEWELRY. WE DON'T STEAL YOURS!" These people are heartless souls, and that's what I'll make them if they don't stop. We need to start a revolution against these scum bags! We need to be suing the companies for not returning our items, for not following through with finding our items, if they have a huge warehouse that they auction off every 5 years, MAKE THEM DONATE IT TO CHARITY! MAKE THEM GIVE IT BACK TO THE PEOPLE, DIVIDE IT UP, GIVE IT TO THE PEOPLE THEY ARE RIPPING OFF! I AM TIRED OF SITTING BACK AND LETTING THESE PEOPLE STEAL MY HARD EARNED FOR ITEMS!
Posted By sarah on May 21, 2010, 2:49 PM
I have had my UNDERWEAR stolen out of my suitcase on two different trips. This freaks me out as there must be some sickie who gets off doing this. I went through the complaint process the first time but no one ever got back to me. I think these areas need to be under some kind of surveillance system!!
Posted By Ann on May 28, 2010, 10:07 AM
My husband, daughter and I traveled around x-mas 2009 with US Airways. The brand new laptop we bought for our daughter was stolen. We were devastated because our luggage had been checked in and we thought that it would be secure. Our vacation was ruined and we argued back and forth about whose fault it was that we'd been naive enough to trust the airports. US Airways gave us the complete run-around and NOTHING was done. Please, if you experience theft, call the Aviation Consumer Protection Division at 202 366 2220. They were the only contact we found that even attempted to help.
Posted By Angela on June 19, 2010, 12:05 AM
My daughter left Wichita, Kansas on Tuesday July 13 traveling through Denver to SanFrancisco....by the time she saw her luggage again in San Francisco she was missing about $50 worth of candy she had purchased as gifts. She is now in Japan having overnighted in San Francisco before continuing on her last leg of the journey but noticed the candy missing when she opened her suitcase in her hotel in San Francisco. The sad thing is that we had bought all this candy for her to share with kids at a school she is presenting at next week.
Posted By Deb on July 16, 2010, 3:10 PM
I had an expensive camera and lens stolen from my bags returning from St Thomas. Police at all the airports I called were so rude and refused to make a report because they didn't know where the theft occured. American Airlines wants 10 weeks to file the paperwork but from what I understand they're not responsible for expensive electronics. No wonder they get stolen so much.
Posted By Brian on July 22, 2010, 9:53 AM
I flew from St. Louis to Phoenix and back about a month ago. I had borrowed a few necklaces from my sister for the trip. They made it to Phoenix, but didn't make it back to St. Louis. The necklaces were stolen in transit and U.S. Airways policy specifically lists "lost" jewelry as an item for which they are not responsible. It is on a list of items that ranges from electronics to heirlooms to documents to just about anything a person could ever possibly own. I paid $50 to check my bags and in doing so, I paid a thief to steal my possessions.
Posted By Liz on September 25, 2010, 12:59 PM
My lap-top mysteriously disappeared out of my carry-on suitcase/bag while traveling Southwest Airlines. I intended to carry on my bag. I was one of the last to board Southwest-Burbank Airport. I was told at the gate there was no more overhead space and my carry-on suitcase/bag would be at Albuquerque, NM. The employee tagged my bag and took it. The airline had a one- stop with a plane change in Oakland, CA. When I picked up my bag at the bag claim carousal in Albuquerque, I noticed it was lighter in weight. I looked in and my lap top which was packed on top of my clothes was gone.
The attitude I received from the claim office in Albuquerque was terrible, stating this has never happened before (Please, Shut the F___ Up!) Phone calls to all Southwest terminals/airports involved are taking no responsibility or sympathizing about the loss.
I have a claim, although this will not replace my lost files. Beware-there is a thief working among Southwest Airlines.
Posted By e. Mendez on October 7, 2010, 8:15 PM
I lost 700$ from my handbag that they assured me that will travel in the cabin... but they actually checked it as luggage.After reading all the comments I'm sure that nothing will happen from AA side... But my question is if someone here has received any money for his damage luggage , etc... because the companies claim that they can pay back until 3000$ sometimes to each passenger for damaged or lost luggage... Has anyone here ever received any amount that exceeds 200$?
Posted By Mike on October 27, 2010, 9:56 PM
I have travelled to my destination on 12/12/10 and upon arrival at my hotel I noticed a zip container with valuables missing out of my bag that i checked in upon departure from SAN. I had the benefit of doubt that I forgot to pack it but when I arrived home last night, 12/18/10 I then knew that I had packed the valuables and came up missing in route from SAN to JAN. I am very disgusted and disappointed to know that TSA is so focused on the security of the passengers but the baggage security is thrown out the window. I also work on aircrafts for many years and I know that between the checkpoint to the plane the baggage are not tended to, they are visible and in sight for any employee in that airport. Even with background checks I am afraid that integrity is no longer a part of your staff. I have locked by baggage before to be told that they will be cut if needed to be inspected, and now that I don't lock my baggage I have my jewelry stolen. During the holidays there should be more focus on not just the passengers but the employees, It blows my mind to see this is happening and there is no secure way to transport our baggage. I will never be compensated and the sentimental value can't be replaced but American Airlines have lost a frequent flyer. I'm deploying overseas for the fifth time to make sure that we have security in our nation yet I get robbed for my hard work so someone else can make a gift for the holidays. I know many reports come through and one is too many. They also have a 24 hr window for reports so it minimizes the search so if the airline companies pretty much "too bad, too sad". I at least learned a very valuable lesson on my part, and that is to put anything valuable or sentimental and don't want lost or stolen in your carry on bag.
Posted By Ana Taras on December 19, 2010, 6:26 PM
Who is our biggest threat to our passenger security at the airports? The workers of TSA and baggage handling!
On Christmas eve, after traveling 18 hours from Guam to California (still in a US territory) , I arrived at my destination on time. When I got home, I noticed my bag had been unzipped slightly (6 inches left open). Inside, I had a TSA slip with NO INSPECTOR ID or location, just a generic slip. Needless to say I had my HD video camera, game console, and only the latest 1 of 10 games was taken. How convenient! The thief only chose the highest dollared items, He left my dirty clothes.
He or she even took my eyeglass case that had may $5-$10 of change. I was so infuriated at first that I realized what else he could have taken.
Needless to say, filing a loss report is painstakingly long, you need to dig up receipts, file it, then you may actually get somebody back to you. It has been 2 days since calling. ZERO response.
I am mad at myself for checking in any high dollar items. This was on my return flight. On my flight out, I carried the console, the video camera, and had no money in there. Upon going through the security check point, the TSA did a second check on my bag, going through everything with extra attention. The agent advised that I should check in those items next time to not have the extra security check.
Up to this point, I have not been crazy about our TSA and talks of security. After this, I HATE them. Where is the video cameras of baggage handling? If an agent opens a bag without your knowledge, they should leave proof of who did what. The more I think of it, it seems more likely somebody knew something was in there of value.
Never again. The warning should be from TSA should be, if you have a high-dollar item, either carry it on or mail it. I have never had an issue of any high dollar items being lost when it has a confirmation number
Merry Christmas from the TSA and your friendly airlines. Thank you for the free goodies.
Posted By G on December 26, 2010, 8:53 PM
Last year i took a photo and wrote a little note that i have taken a photo and asked to please leave everything as they were in my luggage when i went from Florida to Boston (going home) the only thing missing was my TSA lock.. I also got a new name for TSA: To Steal Anything!!!
Posted By Armen on February 23, 2011, 10:23 PM
Last summer my mom went to Cali to visit relatives, she had 5 individually wrapped siopao and tacos placed in the checked baggage.
Apparently the tacos were really good and only found on the west coast.
I wouldn't know because when she got home and unloaded her bags the tacos and one siapao were missing... REALLY?! Ya couldn't have even left me one taco?!?!
TSK TSK TSA, TSK TSK.
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Posted By Catrice Mcelmeel on April 6, 2011, 6:09 PM
Wow. What a day. Flew out of Burbank to DFW on American Airlines and was ROBBED silly by the TSA. Paid $50 to check in my bag and when i got to my hotel to unpack, i noticed my $200 bose headphones, $150 raybqn wayfarers and $40 iphone charger were missing! I was livid and still am!! Called American Airlines and spoke to the rudest ghetto bitch on the planet. She raised her voice at me and told me that i shouldn't have left the items in my suitcase: "then we wouldn't have this problem now, would we"?? I got angry and raised my voice back. She then told me she was going to report my phone call. Coward. I will NEVER fly american airlines again, and i intend to file a police report and get to the bottom of this. I don't expect to see my items again, but this can't continue to go on. WE ALL NEED TO TAKE A STAND! We have been victimized and violated. I am so sick of these airline people and their HORRENDOUS customer service. Nothing but a bunch of attitude. No compassion or understanding; just vile scumbags. Am contacting my lawyers to find out the best possible way to deal with this. We need to raise awareness! Good luck, everyone.
Posted By Kdchr on April 30, 2011, 2:05 AM
I flew from Cleveland to Trinidad with my mom and 5 month old baby. We did as the airlines recommend - we packed all valuables on our carry-on. We had 3 connecting flights and on the last one leaving Miami to Trinidad, my mom took my carry-on since I had the baby and I was ahead of her in the line to board the plane. It is very stressful when you are flying with an infant and I was lucky to have my mom to help me carry my bags. Anyway the American Airlines worker told my mom that my carry-on bag was too large and they had to take it - which was a lie because I measured it and had taken it with me through 2 other flights. I was furious but having the baby I didn't bother to turn around to argue with them. When I reached Trinidad I found some of my electronics missing. I called them the following day since it was late but kept getting a voice message and the sad thing is that their mailbox was full!!! When I wrote a complaint letter they told me they could not do anything because the deadline had passed to make a stolen items claim. I HATE AMERICAN AIRLINES and my family and I would never fly with them again! Good luck with your bags if you travel with them.
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Posted By Rick Magyar on February 9, 2012, 1:51 AM
I have had my luggage ruined by your handlers, two zippers had the tips broken off and the base stand up whas broken, some one went through my pills which my husband is a heart patient and his pills where in a plastic daily container and then in a plastic sealed bag, they opened these and the pills were strewn in the luggage and the containers were sealed up and a bobby pin also was on top of the clothing, I had to buy a new bag in Arizona to travel back home. Do you do any thing about this?
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Posted By Balti 2012 on April 11, 2012, 12:50 AM
I flew on Japan Airlines on April 21 from Nagoya to Los Angeles via Narita. I found that my camera is missing out of my checked luggge, I called JAL
office in Los Angeles. They have told me that there's no proof that camera was in my suitcase and there's nothing they can do. They told me to
report it to Airport police in Los Angeles but they will not take any report since it is likely to happened in Nagoya or Narita Airport in Japan when they inspected the luggage.
I'd like to ask the person who took my camera that he or she can keep the camera but return the memory card which contains many photos of Cherry blossom & entire trip with my family in Japan.
Posted By Motoko on April 26, 2012, 8:32 PM
southwest at tsa they checked our luggage me and boyfriend, then my sony camcoder charger and the brand new bikini with tag was missing. Also when i go by American airline, they transit but not change the airplane they let passenger walk out and comeback , i was so tried because transit for 12 hours without sleep ,then i forgot my jacket. and when i come back is missing .
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Posted By Marianela Heverly on May 5, 2012, 3:41 PM
After what just happened to my friend on our way back from Kauai the first part of this week, (irreplaceable jewelry was lifted from her checked baggage on a United flight) I do believe all TSA workers should be checked before they leave their jobs. There are many of us out here that are honest and unemployed and would love to work these jobs and make the $$$$ they do and can be trusted NOT TO STEAL. I can't believe these people are bonded and background checked and still fall through the cracks. My friend is devestated and I can't blame her. One piece was a gift from her great grandmother. I think the word "security" should be removed from the logo.....what a sad shame
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After what just happened to my friend on our way back from Kauai the first part of this week, (irreplaceable jewelry was lifted from her checked baggage on a United flight) I do believe all TSA workers should be checked before they leave their jobs. There are many of us out here that are honest and unemployed and would love to work these jobs and make the $$$$ they do and can be trusted NOT TO STEAL. I can't believe these people are bonded and background checked and still fall through the cracks. My friend is devestated and I can't blame her. One piece was a gift from her great grandmother. I think the word "security" should be removed from the logo.....what a sad shame
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Posted By Hye Brozyna on May 17, 2012, 3:46 PM
Comming from oklahoma to new york on AA flight my bag was lost for a little eventualy it was found and sent to me in via delta laguadia only to see my flash drives and golden watch missing i send a message to AA via there information system and they have never had the respect to ever call me back about my items shame on AA i will never fly that stealing airline ever and so to i will tell my friends .
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Comming from oklahoma to new york on AA flight my bag was lost for a little eventualy it was found and sent to me in via delta laguadia only to see my flash drives and golden watch missing i send a message to AA via there information system and they have never had the respect to ever call me back about my items shame on AA i will never fly that stealing airline ever and so to i will tell my friends .
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