Think You Can Skip That Broken Handle or Wheel? Think Again.
You’re at baggage claim and your suitcase has a busted wheel, torn zipper, or a snapped handle. It’s aggravating—but here’s the thing: airlines can’t just shrug it off as “normal wear and tear” and decline liability. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) explicitly reminds carriers that airlines must accept and compensate for damage to wheels, straps, zippers, handles, and other protruding parts—even if the baggage looks worn overall.
Why Airlines Can’t Dodge Responsibility
Under DOT regulations:
For domestic flights, airlines must pay up to $3,800 per passenger, covering lost, delayed, or damaged checked baggage.
For international flights, the Montreal Convention steps in. Liability is capped at approximately $1,700–$1,800 depending on current exchange rates.
These are maximum liability limits—not what you'll automatically get. The airline is responsible for repair or compensation up to those amounts, minus depreciation.
First Things First: Report Damage Immediately
Check your luggage ASAP—ideally, before you leave the airport. If there’s damage, insist that the airline writes up a report (commonly called a Property Irregularity Report).
Do this by talking to airline staff right away - call customer service or start a claim online if staff is not available/you arrive after standard hours - and then follow up in writing (certified letter or email), recording names, times, what was said, and what was done.
What Might You Get Compensated For?
Repairs: If your bag can be fixed, airlines should pay for it.
Replacement or depreciation value: If not repairable, you’ll negotiate a value based on what the suitcase was worth at the time of damage.
Contents: If items inside were damaged because of the airline’s mishandling—and you have proof—they typically must compensate within liability limits. But airlines may deny if packing was inadequate or there’s no external damage to the bag.
Tip: Keep receipts, take photos of both outside and inside of the bag, and itemize anything broken.
When Airlines Treat Wear‑and‑Tear as Anything but
Unfortunately, some airline agents still try to tell passengers that broken wheels or handles are just normal wear. But DOT says that’s not valid.
Step‑by‑Step: How to File a Damaged Baggage Claim
Inspect your bag ASAP upon arrival.
Report damage immediately—before you leave the airport if possible.
Get everything in writing: report, claim reference number, staff details.
Document it: take photos, keep receipts, luggage tag, boarding pass, etc.
Submit formal claim—with documentation and timelines followed accurately.
Negotiate fairly: the airline will likely quote depreciation; counter with your proof.
If rejected or low‑balled, escalate: file a DOT complaint.
DOT must acknowledge within 30 days and respond within 60 days.WFAA
The Bottom Line — Your Broken Bag Isn’t “Your Problem”
You are covered. DOT mandates compensation for damage to external parts of luggage—even if your suitcase feels worn.
Limits apply, but you’re still entitled to repair or a fair depreciation value—up to $3,800 for domestic flights or ~ $1,700–$1,800 for international ones.
Act fast, document everything, and escalate to higher-ups — or your handy if needed.
Ready to Handle That Broken Bag Like a Pro?
Pack smart, travel smooth—and remember, damage isn’t just part of flying: it's something you can request compensation for.
Know your rights, keep your paperwork, and don’t let airlines hide behind “wear and tear.”
Know Your Rights. Claim What’s Yours. Fly Fair.