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How much compensation can you get for lost luggage?

6 min readOct 16, 2023

Ethiopian Airlines, like most reputable airlines, has a lost luggage compensation policy in place to address situations where passengers’ baggage is lost, damaged, or delayed. This policy is designed to ensure that passengers are fairly compensated for their lost or delayed belongings. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore Ethiopian Airlines’ lost luggage compensation policy, including the steps to take in the event of lost luggage, the documentation required, and the process for making a claim.

1. Reporting Lost Luggage

If you discover that your luggage is lost or damaged upon arrival at your destination, or if it is delayed in reaching you, it’s important to take immediate action. Here are the steps to follow:

a. Report to Ethiopian Airlines: As soon as you realize that your luggage is missing or damaged, visit the Ethiopian Airlines baggage service counter or office at the airport. Inform the airline’s staff about the situation and provide them with your flight and baggage claim tags. They will assist you in filling out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) to document the issue.

b. Ensure Accuracy: When completing the PIR, make sure to provide accurate information about your baggage, including its description and contents. Be clear about any unique features or identifiers on your luggage that can help distinguish it.

c. Request a Copy: Ask for a copy of the completed PIR for your records. This document will serve as essential evidence when filing a claim for lost luggage compensation.

d. Obtain a Reference Number: Ethiopian Airlines will provide you with a reference number or case number associated with your lost or delayed baggage. This reference number is crucial for tracking the status of your claim and ensuring that the process proceeds smoothly.

2. Tracking Your Lost Luggage

After reporting your lost luggage to Ethiopian Airlines, you can track its status and location through the airline’s baggage tracing system. This system uses the reference number from your PIR to help identify the current location and status of your baggage. Ethiopian Airlines will make efforts to reunite you with your belongings as soon as possible.

3. Ethiopian Airlines’ Baggage Delivery Service

In cases of delayed baggage, Ethiopian Airlines may provide a baggage delivery service to transport your luggage to your location. The airline typically covers the costs associated with delivering your baggage once it is located. You can specify your delivery address and receive updates on the progress of your baggage’s journey.

4. Ethiopian Airlines’ Compensation for Lost Luggage

Ethiopian Airlines’ compensation policy for lost luggage is subject to international regulations, primarily governed by the Montreal Convention. The Montreal Convention is an international treaty that sets the maximum liability of airlines in the event of lost or damaged baggage.

The airline’s compensation for lost luggage can be outlined as follows:

a. Limit of Liability: Ethiopian Airlines’ liability for lost or delayed baggage is limited to the equivalent of 1,131 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) per passenger. The actual value in local currency can vary, and the Montreal Convention defines this limit.

b. Exceptions: Ethiopian Airlines may offer compensation exceeding the Montreal Convention limit in certain cases, such as for valuable items or electronic devices that are not recommended for checked baggage.

c. Proof of Value: To facilitate your lost luggage compensation claim, it’s important to provide proof of the value of the items contained in your baggage. This can include receipts, invoices, or other documentation showing the worth of your belongings.

d. Perishable Items: Compensation for perishable items, such as food or plants, may be limited. Ethiopian Airlines may not provide full reimbursement for such items.

e. Delayed Luggage: In the case of delayed luggage, Ethiopian Airlines typically offers limited reimbursement for essential items you may need during the time your baggage is delayed. The airline may provide a fixed daily allowance for purchasing necessary clothing and toiletries.

5. Making a Claim for Lost Luggage Compensation

To make a claim for lost luggage compensation on Ethiopian Airlines, follow these steps:

a. Submit Your Claim: File your claim as soon as possible, typically within the specified timeframe set by the airline. You can submit your claim online through Ethiopian Airlines’ official website or by visiting their local office.

b. Provide Documentation: When making a claim, you will need to provide documentation supporting the value of your lost items. This may include receipts, invoices, or other evidence of the items’ worth.

c. Reference Number: Include the reference number or case number from the Property Irregularity Report (PIR) that you received when reporting the lost luggage. This reference number is essential for tracking your claim.

d. Be Patient: Ethiopian Airlines will conduct an investigation into your claim to determine the appropriate compensation. This process may take some time, so it’s important to be patient while the airline reviews your case.

e. Communication: Stay in communication with Ethiopian Airlines during the claims process. The airline may require additional information or documentation to process your claim.

f. Resolution: Once Ethiopian Airlines reviews your claim and documentation, they will provide a resolution, which may include compensation or reimbursement for your lost or delayed baggage.

6. Lost Luggage Claim Timeframe

Ethiopian Airlines typically establishes a timeframe within which passengers must submit a claim for lost or delayed baggage. This timeframe can vary, but it’s important to file your claim as soon as possible after discovering the issue. Failure to do so may result in complications with your claim.

7. Lost Luggage Compensation for Valuables

In cases where you have valuable items in your checked baggage, such as electronics, jewelry, or other high-value items, it’s advisable to consider separate insurance coverage or to carry these valuables in your cabin baggage. Ethiopian Airlines’ compensation for lost or damaged baggage typically has limitations, and valuable items may not be fully covered.

8. Review Your Travel Insurance

If you have travel insurance, it’s recommended to check the coverage it provides for lost luggage. Your travel insurance policy may offer additional compensation or reimbursement for lost or delayed baggage beyond what the airline provides. It’s essential to understand the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy and how to make a claim if necessary.

9. Conclusion

Ethiopian Airlines has a lost luggage compensation policy in place to address situations where passengers’ baggage is lost, damaged, or delayed. It’s essential to follow the proper reporting procedures, provide accurate documentation of your lost items’ value, and file a claim within the established timeframe. Ethiopian Airlines’ compensation for lost luggage is typically subject to international regulations, and the airline’s liability is generally limited. If you have valuable items, consider separate insurance coverage to ensure full protection in the event of lost or damaged baggage. Always refer to Ethiopian Airlines’ official website or contact the airline directly for the most up-to-date information on their lost luggage compensation policy.