Outline
When traveling, the last thing anyone expects is to face issues with their luggage. Unfortunately, mishandled baggage can lead to significant inconvenience and frustration. To address these situations, airlines like American Airlines and US Airways provide a structured process through the Claim Passenger Property form. This form serves as a formal request for assistance in locating lost luggage, reporting missing contents, or filing damage claims. It is essential to fill out all sections completely and return the form within 45 days of travel to ensure the claim is processed efficiently. The form requires detailed information, including personal identification, flight itinerary, and specifics about the baggage in question. Additionally, it includes a checklist of necessary documentation, such as baggage claim checks and receipts for any items valued over $150. By adhering to these guidelines and providing accurate information, travelers can facilitate the tracing efforts and improve their chances of recovering their property. Understanding the limitations of liability for lost or damaged baggage is also crucial, as different regulations apply depending on whether the travel is domestic or international. This article will delve deeper into the nuances of the Claim Passenger Property form, guiding travelers through the process and helping them navigate their rights and responsibilities effectively.
Sample - Claim Passenger Property Form
Dear American Airlines/US Airways Customer,
Please accept our sincere apology for the mishandling of your property. We understand your concern and realize the inconvenience this
causes. Once the form has been returned to us, we will intensify our tracing efforts with the goal of locating and returning your property.
Complete all areas of this form and return it to us no later than 45 days from the date of travel. Failure to return this completed form to us
within the timeframe may result in the denial of your claim.
If your claim involves more than one piece of baggage, please itemize each bag and its contents separately. Failure to include the
requested information may affect the processing of your claim.
Check list:
Airline ticket receipts
Baggage claim checks
Receipt(s) for excess value claimed
Receipt(s) for excess baggage charges paid
Receipt(s) for all items valued over $150.00
Damage claims: retain all damaged bags and/or contents until your claim has been resolved
Retain a copy of all documents submitted to the airline for your personal records
Once you have completed the form, please return it to us by mail or fax:
American Airlines, Inc.
Central Baggage Service
PO Box 619613 – MD 1322
Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX 75261-9613
Fax: 972-425-0714
Email: [email protected]
US Airways
Central Baggage
4000 E Sky Harbor Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Fax 480-693-2305
Email: [email protected]
Liability Limitations:
Liability for loss, delay, or damage to baggage will be limited as follows:
Domestic Travel (wholly within the United States) - $3,400 per ticketed passenger.
Certain items are excluded from liability; see Contract of Carriage at AmericanAirlines.com or USAirways.com
International Travel (including domestic portions of international itineraries) are covered by the Montreal Convention – 1,131 SDRs
(Special Drawing Rights) per ticketed passenger
Thank you for your cooperation,
Your American Airlines Central Baggage Team
PASSENGER PROPERTY QUESTIONNAIRE
AAdvantage or US Dividend Account: ________________ Record Locator or File Reference Number: ________________
Type of Claim: (check all that apply)
Lost Luggage
Missing Contents
Damaged Luggage and/or Contents
Delay Expenses
Mr. First Middle Last Name
Mrs.
Ms.
Phone Number
Home: Business:
Permanent Mailing Number Street Apt.
Address
Temporary Mailing Number Street Apt.
Address
City State
Zip Code
City State
Zip Code
Country
Postal Code
Country
Postal Code
Email Address: Employed by:
Occupation:
Your Complete Flight Itinerary
From To Airline Flight Number Travel Date
Have you, or any member of your household, had a previous baggage claim with AA/US or any other airline in the last 5 Years? Yes
No
If yes, list each airline, claimant name and dates (attach an additional page if necessary)
Airline(s) __________________________________________________ Name(s) __________________________________________________
Date(s) _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Information gathered on this form may be shared with other airlines, local, state and federal law enforcement agencies or private insurers.
Number of ticketed passengers
traveling in your party:
Number of passengers
claiming missing baggage:
Purpose of trip? Length of stay?
Were you charged for excess
and/or overweight baggage:
Yes
No
Did you declare and pay for excess value: Yes
No
Value declared: $
Have you received your baggage and are you missing contents only: Yes
No
If yes, how many bags are missing contents?
No
In person
Where and when did you last see your baggage?
Has this loss been reported to another airline? Yes
No
If yes, please provide name of airline and city where reported.
APPLICABLE IN USA ONLY. It is expressly understood and agreed by the claimant that the furnishing of this form and any assistance given by employees of
American Airlines, Inc., are acts of courtesy and shall not constitute a waiver of any rights or an admission of liability by or on the part of American Airlines, Inc., its
employees or agents. Any other information and/or documents relating to this statement which are required by American Airlines, Inc., will be furnished by claimant
upon request and shall be considered part of this statement.
and any
such claims received by American Airlines, Inc., are reported to the United States Postal Authorities. Loss of baggage in interstate shipment or of articles from such
by the Federal Bureau of
Investigation.
OP124 (Rev 11/2013) CPN 5689520 Complete Reverse Side
BAGGAGE AND CONTENT DESCRIPTION
NOTE: When more than one piece of baggage is lost, complete a separate baggage and content list for each missing bag.
Baggage routing: Flight number(s) on claim check: Airport checked from: Airport checked to:
Baggage tag number(s): Passenger ticket number(s):
Number of bags checked: Number of bags received:
Baggage checked at: Curbside
Ticket Counter
Gate
Other
Was baggage rechecked and new tags issued? Yes
No
If yes, at what airport?
Was baggage available at Customs? Yes
No
N/A
If yes, at what city?
Give details if the original routing was changed after starting your trip:
Was your property packed in a box? Yes
No
Was your property packed with an external cover? (example: golf bag) Yes
No
Is the name on the bag(s) different from the passenger? If so, what name?
Please list any initials, marks, tags, ribbons, cords, tape or other exterior markings on your bag(s):
Bag Type Material Color(s) Brand
Bag
Dimensions
Open/Close
with Zipper
Wheels
Retractable
Handle
Purchase
Date
Cost of Bag
Hard
Soft
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Gender = M: Male F: Female CH: Child I: Infant (under 2 yrs)
Qty Article/Item Size Gender
M,F,CH,I
Description Color Material Brand Label Store
Purchased
Purchase
Date
Original
Cost
1 Shoes 12 M White with blue stripes Leather Nike Sears Jan-13 $55.00
4 T-Shirts L M Undershirts White Cotton Hanes JCP Jan-13 $20.00
If additional space is needed, please attach a separate page. Be sure to include a complete
description and cost for each item along with receipts for all items valued over $150.00.
TOTAL: $
I do hereby warrant the foregoing statement and those on the accompanying forms to be accurate, complete and true. I hereby
make a claim against American Airlines, Inc./US Airways, in the amount of $ ______ for a loss occurring on _______________
______________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________
Claimant signature Date Claimant signature* Date
*Signatures are required for each passenger claiming lost property. Parents may sign for their children under age 18.
Form Information
| Fact Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Submission Deadline | Claims must be submitted within 45 days from the date of travel. |
| Liability Limit for Domestic Travel | For domestic travel within the United States, liability is limited to $3,400 per ticketed passenger. |
| International Travel Coverage | Claims involving international travel are governed by the Montreal Convention, which provides coverage of 1,131 SDRs per ticketed passenger. |
| Required Documentation | Claimants must provide airline ticket receipts, baggage claim checks, and receipts for any items valued over $150. |
| Claim Processing | Failure to include all requested information may delay or affect the processing of the claim. |
| Notification of Loss | Claimants must notify the airline of the loss within 4 hours to ensure the validity of their claim. |
Detailed Guide for Filling Out Claim Passenger Property
Once you have gathered all necessary information and documents, it's time to fill out the Claim Passenger Property form. Ensure that you complete it accurately and return it promptly to avoid any delays in processing your claim. Follow the steps below carefully.
- Write your AAdvantage or US Dividend Account number in the designated space.
- Fill in your Record Locator or File Reference Number.
- Select the type of claim by checking all applicable boxes: Lost Luggage, Missing Contents, Damaged Luggage and/or Contents, or Delay Expenses.
- Provide your full name, including title (Mr., Mrs., Ms.), and your phone number.
- Enter your permanent and temporary mailing addresses, including city, state, zip code, and country.
- Include your email address and the name of your employer, along with your occupation.
- Detail your complete flight itinerary, including departure and arrival locations, airline, flight number, and travel date.
- Indicate whether you or any household member has made a previous baggage claim in the last five years. If yes, list the airlines, claimant names, and dates.
- State the number of ticketed passengers and the number of passengers claiming missing baggage.
- Answer whether you were charged for excess and/or overweight baggage, and if you declared and paid for excess value.
- Indicate if you have received your baggage and are only missing contents, and how many bags are missing contents.
- Confirm if the airline was notified of the loss immediately, and provide details on how and where you last saw your baggage.
- Report if the loss has been reported to another airline, including the name of the airline and city.
- Complete the baggage and content description section, providing details for each missing bag, including baggage routing, flight numbers, and checked baggage details.
- List all items in the baggage, including descriptions, sizes, colors, materials, brands, and purchase costs. Attach additional pages if necessary.
- Sign and date the form, ensuring each passenger claiming lost property has signed. Parents may sign for children under 18.
Once you have completed the form, gather all required documents, including receipts and identification. Send everything to the appropriate address or fax number provided in the instructions. Keep a copy of all documents for your records.
Obtain Answers on Claim Passenger Property
-
What is the purpose of the Claim Passenger Property form?
The Claim Passenger Property form is designed for passengers who have experienced issues with their baggage, such as loss, damage, or missing contents. By completing this form, you initiate the process for the airline to trace and potentially recover your property. It helps the airline track your claim efficiently and ensures that you receive any compensation you may be entitled to.
-
What information do I need to provide on the form?
You will need to fill out various sections, including your personal details, flight itinerary, and the specifics of your claim. Additionally, if your claim involves multiple pieces of baggage, each item must be listed separately. Providing complete and accurate information is crucial for the timely processing of your claim.
-
How long do I have to submit the form?
You must return the completed form to the airline within 45 days from your date of travel. If you miss this deadline, your claim may be denied. It’s essential to adhere to this timeframe to ensure your claim is considered.
-
What documents should I include with my claim?
When submitting your claim, include the following documents:
- Airline ticket receipts
- Baggage claim checks
- Receipts for any excess value claimed
- Receipts for excess baggage charges
- Receipts for items valued over $150
- Clear identification for each passenger making a claim
- For damage claims, retain all damaged bags and contents until the claim is resolved
Retaining a copy of all documents for your records is also advisable.
-
What should I do if my baggage is damaged?
If your baggage is damaged, it is important to keep all damaged items and report the issue to the airline as soon as possible. This includes filling out the Claim Passenger Property form and providing any necessary documentation, such as receipts for repairs or replacement items. Keeping the damaged baggage until your claim is resolved is also required.
-
What are the liability limitations for baggage claims?
For domestic travel within the United States, liability for loss, delay, or damage to baggage is limited to $3,400 per ticketed passenger. For international travel, claims are governed by the Montreal Convention, which sets the limit at 1,131 SDRs (Special Drawing Rights) per ticketed passenger. Certain items may be excluded from liability, so it’s wise to review the airline's Contract of Carriage for specifics.
-
Can I submit my claim via email or fax?
Yes, you can submit your completed Claim Passenger Property form by mail, fax, or email. The relevant contact details for faxing and emailing your claim are provided in the form. Ensure that you include all necessary documentation to avoid delays in processing.
-
What happens if I do not notify the airline of my baggage loss immediately?
If you do not notify the airline of your baggage loss within 4 hours, your claim may be affected. In such cases, it is important to provide a reason for the delay in notification on your claim form. Prompt reporting helps streamline the claims process and increases the likelihood of recovering your property.
-
What should I do if I have a previous baggage claim?
If you or any member of your household has had a previous baggage claim with American Airlines/US Airways or any other airline in the last five years, you must disclose this information on the form. Providing this context can help the airline manage your claim more effectively.
Common mistakes
Filling out the Claim Passenger Property form can be a straightforward process, but many individuals make common mistakes that can hinder their claims. One frequent error is failing to complete all required sections of the form. Each area must be filled out completely, as incomplete forms may lead to delays or denials of claims.
Another mistake is not submitting the form within the specified timeframe. The airline requests that the completed form be returned no later than 45 days from the date of travel. Missing this deadline can result in the denial of the claim, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the loss or damage.
People often overlook the necessity of itemizing multiple pieces of baggage. If a claim involves more than one bag, it is essential to list each bag and its contents separately. Failure to do so can complicate the processing of the claim and may lead to incomplete reimbursements.
Inadequate documentation is another common issue. Claimants should ensure they include all necessary receipts, such as baggage claim checks and receipts for any items valued over $150.00. Not providing these documents can significantly affect the outcome of the claim.
Many individuals also forget to provide clear and legible identification. Each passenger making a claim must submit a government-issued photo ID. If this identification is unclear or missing, it can create additional barriers to processing the claim.
Another mistake involves not retaining damaged bags or contents. For damage claims, it is important to keep all damaged items until the claim is resolved. Disposing of these items prematurely can lead to complications in proving the claim.
Additionally, some claimants do not provide a complete flight itinerary. This includes details such as the airline, flight number, and travel dates. Missing this information can lead to confusion and delays in processing the claim.
People sometimes fail to notify the airline of the loss immediately. The airline should be informed within four hours of discovering the loss. If there is a delay in reporting, it is important to explain the reason for this delay on the form.
Lastly, some individuals neglect to keep a copy of all submitted documents for their records. Retaining copies can be beneficial if any issues arise during the claims process, as it provides proof of what was submitted.
Documents used along the form
When filing a claim for lost or damaged baggage with American Airlines or US Airways, several other forms and documents may be necessary to support your claim. These documents help streamline the claims process and ensure all relevant information is provided. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that accompany the Claim Passenger Property form.
- Airline Ticket Receipts: These receipts serve as proof of your travel and may be required to verify your flight details and eligibility for a claim.
- Baggage Claim Checks: This document is issued when you check in your baggage. It is essential for tracking your luggage and confirming that it was checked onto your flight.
- Receipts for Excess Value Claimed: If you declared a higher value for your baggage than the standard liability limits, receipts are necessary to substantiate that claim.
- Receipts for Excess Baggage Charges Paid: If you paid additional fees for excess baggage, these receipts are required to confirm the charges incurred during your travel.
- Clear and Legible Government-Issued Photo Identification: Each passenger making a claim must provide identification to verify their identity and support their claim.
- Documentation of Damaged Items: For claims involving damaged baggage or contents, retain all damaged items until the claim is resolved, as they may be required for inspection.
Submitting these documents alongside the Claim Passenger Property form can significantly enhance the efficiency of your claim process. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays or complications in receiving compensation.
Similar forms
- Insurance Claim Form: Similar to the Claim Passenger Property form, an insurance claim form requires detailed information about the loss or damage, supporting documentation, and a clear description of the claim. Both forms aim to facilitate compensation for lost or damaged property.
- Incident Report Form: An incident report form documents events leading to a claim, much like the Claim Passenger Property form. Both require specifics about the circumstances surrounding the loss or damage, ensuring that all relevant details are recorded for review.
- Property Damage Claim Form: This form is used to report damage to personal property. Like the Claim Passenger Property form, it seeks to establish the nature of the damage, the value of the items involved, and any relevant receipts or evidence to support the claim.
- Lost Item Report: A lost item report is similar in that it requests information about the missing item, where it was last seen, and any identifying details. Both forms focus on gathering information to locate the lost property effectively.
- Travel Insurance Claim Form: This form is used when travelers seek reimbursement for losses incurred during their trip. It shares similarities with the Claim Passenger Property form in that both require proof of loss, documentation of expenses, and a timeline of events related to the claim.
- Damage Assessment Form: Used to evaluate the extent of damage to property, this form parallels the Claim Passenger Property form by requiring a detailed description of the damage, photographs, and estimates for repair or replacement, ensuring thorough documentation for the claim process.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Claim Passenger Property form, it’s essential to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here’s a handy list of dos and don’ts to guide you through the process:
- Do complete all areas of the form to avoid delays.
- Do submit your form within 45 days of your travel date.
- Do itemize each piece of baggage and its contents if you have multiple claims.
- Do retain copies of all documents you submit for your records.
- Don’t forget to include receipts for items valued over $150.00.
- Don’t submit the form without checking for clarity and legibility.
- Don’t discard damaged bags or contents until your claim is resolved.
- Don’t wait too long to report the loss; notify the airline as soon as possible.
Following these guidelines can help ensure that your claim is processed smoothly and efficiently. Remember, attention to detail is key!
Misconceptions
Misconceptions about the Claim Passenger Property form can lead to confusion and frustration for travelers. Here are ten common misunderstandings and clarifications:
- All claims must be submitted within 45 days. Many believe that they can take their time, but the form must be returned within 45 days from the date of travel to avoid denial.
- Only one piece of baggage can be claimed. Some think they can only claim one bag. However, if multiple bags are lost, each must be itemized separately on the form.
- Documentation is optional. It's a common belief that receipts and supporting documents are not necessary. In reality, failure to provide required documentation can delay or deny a claim.
- Claims are automatically approved. Travelers often assume that submitting a claim guarantees approval. Each claim is evaluated based on specific criteria and may be denied if not properly substantiated.
- Claims can be submitted by anyone. Some individuals think that anyone can file a claim. In fact, only the ticketed passenger or a parent/guardian for minors can submit claims.
- Claims can be filed after receiving the baggage. A misconception exists that travelers can file claims for missing contents after their bags are returned. Claims for missing contents must be reported immediately.
- All items are covered under liability. Many believe that all items in their luggage are protected. Certain items, such as cash and electronics, may be excluded from liability.
- Filing a claim is a lengthy process. Some think that the claims process takes an eternity. While it can take time, proper documentation and timely submission can expedite the process.
- Claims can be submitted via email only. There's a belief that electronic submission is the only option. However, claims can also be mailed or faxed, providing flexibility for travelers.
- Previous claims affect new claims. Some travelers worry that past claims will negatively impact new submissions. Each claim is evaluated independently based on its own merits.
Understanding these misconceptions can help travelers navigate the claims process more effectively and increase their chances of a successful outcome.
Key takeaways
When filling out the Claim Passenger Property form, it’s essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure your claim is processed efficiently. Here are some key takeaways:
- Timeliness is crucial. Complete and return the form within 45 days from your travel date. Delays may lead to denial of your claim.
- Detail matters. If you have multiple pieces of luggage, itemize each bag and its contents separately to avoid complications.
- Documentation is necessary. Include all relevant receipts and identification, especially for items valued over $150. This will support your claim and expedite the process.
- Communication is key. Retain copies of all submitted documents and maintain records of any communication with the airline regarding your claim.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can enhance the likelihood of a successful resolution to your baggage claim.