Glasgow Airport has issued advice to passengers on what to do if their checked-in baggage is delayed or lost, outlining a clear reporting process and the documents needed for compensation claims.
Why baggage gets delayed
The airport explains that checked-in baggage can be delayed for several reasons, including tight connections, customs and excise processes, security requirements, or simply due to weather, infrastructure, and resource challenges along the way.
There is a well-established process for getting checked bags to their final destination, and airlines aim to reunite passengers with their bags as soon as possible. However, delivery times can vary due to flight schedules and weather disruption. Passengers are advised to allow up to 5 working days for the airline to return their baggage.
Steps to follow if your bag is missing
Glasgow Airport recommends completing a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) before leaving the airport, as without it the airline's customer services may not be able to process a claim. Keep a copy of the completed PIR for records.
The fastest way to report a missing bag is to visit the airline's baggage page, using your booking locator reference. Most airlines provide a reference code upon completion, which is a combination of 5 letters and 5 digits, for example GLAZZ12345.
Keep a note of your PIR reference number to track your baggage's status. If your baggage has not been returned within 7 days, the airport recommends contacting your airline's handling agents.
Claiming compensation
Even after reporting the problem, you may still need to make a claim for compensation unless the airline pays upfront, for example for expenses while luggage is delayed. If you didn't report at the airport, contact the airline or use their website and get written confirmation.
Most airlines follow these guidelines, but it's best to check with your airline. If your luggage is delayed or missing, the airline has 21 days to return it. If returned within 21 days, you can claim for delayed luggage; if not, you can claim for lost luggage.
Claims for damaged luggage or missing/damaged contents must be made within 7 days of receiving your luggage. For delayed or missing luggage, claims can be made within 21 days after the flight. Lost luggage is officially lost after 21 days, and claims should be made as soon as possible after that.
Documents needed for claims
Glasgow Airport recommends having these seven documents ready to help your claim proceed smoothly:
- Your boarding card
- Your luggage labels (with bar-code and number)
- Proof you reported the problem (PIR form or email from the airline)
- Receipts for items bought due to the delay
- Proof of purchase for lost or damaged items (receipts or credit card statements)
- Photographs of any damage to luggage or contents
- Cost estimates for repairs, e.g. from a luggage repair business
Always check with your airline to ensure you have all necessary documents and no extra steps are needed.
