Lost or damaged registered luggage Checked-in luggage
If your registered luggage is lost, damaged or delayed, you may be entitled to compensation from the airline, up to about 1,220 euro Exception – if damage is caused by an inherent defect in the baggage itself. Hand baggage (including personal items)
The carrier is liable if it was responsible for the damage.
Make sure to file your claim within 7 days of receiving your luggage (or 21 days if your luggage was delayed).
If you wish to pursue other legal action, you must do so within 2 years of the date your luggage arrives.
If you are travelling with expensive items, you might be able – for a fee – to obtain a compensation limit higher than 1,223 euro by making a special advance declaration to the airline – at the latest when you check in. Though the best thing is really to take out private travel insurance.
There is no standard form for the special declaration. It is up to the airlines to choose the type of form they provide.