Does Finnair pay compensation when bags are delayed?
On a recent Finnair flight from Germany to Tampere, Finnland, my checked in baggage was delayed. It arrived the same night but by that time I had already spent money on clothes and toiletries (approx. 80 Euros) since there was no information when my suitcase would arrive. AFAIK this isn't a case where they have to pay compensation (which would be denied boarding or severe delay under EU rules or bag irretrievably lost under international airline rules).
I am considering writing to Finnair to claim compensation. However, I'd like to avoid spending a whole hour scanning the receipts and filling in an online form only to find they would not reimburse me. My goal is to get cash, not miles are anything I need to spend with the airline.
How likely am I to receive compensation?
Best Answer
Your Europe Air Passenger Rights
Lost, damaged or delayed luggage
Checked-in luggage
If your checked-in luggage is lost, damaged or delayed, the airline is liable and you're entitled to compensation up to an amount of approximately EUR 1 300. However if the damage was caused by an inherent defect in the baggage itself, you're not entitled to any compensation.Travel insurance
To ensure you have sufficient coverage when travelling with expensive items it's advisable to take out private insurance. If you do not wish to do so you can for a fee request a higher compensation limit (in excess of EUR 1 300) from the airline you are travelling with. This must be done in advance and at the latest when you check-in.Hand luggage
If your hand luggage is damaged the airline is liable if it was responsible for the damage.How to complain
If you want to file a claim for lost or damaged luggage, you should do it in writing to the airline within 7 days, or within 21 days of receiving your luggage if it was delayed. There is no standard EU-wide form.
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Can you get compensation for delayed baggage?
You have the legal right to claim compensation from the airline if your checked-in luggage is delayed, lost or damaged. You only have the right to claim for a problem with cabin baggage if it's the airline's fault.How much can you claim for delayed luggage?
If the airline misplaced your luggage on a domestic flight in the United States, you may claim up to $3,500 according to the Department of Transportation (DOT).What happens to my bag if my flight is delayed?
The airline will reroute your checked bag to your destination (or wherever you ask them to) as best it can, and it will deliver the bag to you at no charge (although you may wait a day or two or even longer, depending upon how bad the delay is).How much do airlines reimburse for luggage?
Lost & Misrouted Luggage On flights within the U.S., airlines are responsible for lost-luggage reimbursement up to $2,500 per person; on international flights, airlines owe you a mere $9.07 per pound, with a ceiling of $640. (That rate was set by an international treaty in 1929.)Call 4 Action: How to get compensation for lost or delayed luggage
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