Which Airlines Are Losing Your Luggage The Most?
New data reveals just how common the lost-luggage nightmare truly is, as well as which airlines are the worst offenders.
Between 2021 and 2024, airlines across the United States 'mishandled' more than 7.7 million bags of luggage, according to a study from Boutique Hotel Hub. Using data from the Department of Transportation, researchers ranked airlines based on the frequency of mishandled luggage, wheelchairs, and mobility scooters over a three-year period.
American Airlines tops the list, with 8.7 reports of mishandled luggage for every 1,000 items boarded, the highest rate in the country. That translates to over 1.7 million lost or damaged bags out of around 200 million items handled.
Envoy Air, a regional extension of American Airlines, came in second at 8.2 mishandled items per 1,000. Republic Airways, which operates in conjunction with several major American airlines, rounded out the top three at 7 per 1,000. Other major airlines on the list include Alaska Airlines (6.6), United Airlines (6.4), and Delta Air Lines (5.1).
Even budget travelers aren't safe. Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines also made the top 15, each mishandling hundreds of thousands of bags during that same study period.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Bags?
While the numbers might sound discouraging, there are a few steps you can take to help keep your luggage safe:
Pick a bag that stands out. A bright or unique suitcase is less likely to be mistaken for someone else's.
Use a luggage tag. Always include your contact information in case your bag gets separated from you.
Consider a tracker. GPS luggage trackers can help you locate your suitcase if it goes missing.
Report issues immediately. If your bag is lost or damaged, report it before leaving the baggage claim area. Most airlines have a dedicated desk for baggage problems.
Ronan McLoughlin, a spokesperson for Boutique Hotel Hub, put it, saying: 'When traveling, the last thing you expect is for your bag to be lost or otherwise mishandled by your airline. It can add a lot of unnecessary stress to an expensive vacation, and while accidents do happen, passengers have a right to be upset when this happens.'
'If you find that your luggage has been lost, damaged, or mishandled in any way during your flight, report the problem immediately at the airport before you leave the baggage claim area,' McLoughlin added.
And if all else fails? Maybe consider packing an extra set of clothes in your carry-on, just in case.
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