Baggage Loss, Delay & Natural Disaster - What's Being Mandated By Law

Posted on: Jun 25, 2025 | 3 min | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Baggage Loss, Delay & Natural Disaster - What's Being Mandated By Law

Natural Disaster Coverage in Travel Insurance

Losing your luggage or having to stop your flight because of bad weather can quickly take away from the fun of travelling. But what are your rights as a guest when things like that happen?

Luckily, both foreign agreements and U.S. rules require airlines to make up for these kinds of problems for travellers. If you want these benefits, having the correct information and a travel insurance Malaysia plan can make all the difference.

International Framework: The Montreal Convention

The Montreal Convention of 1999 governs airline responsibilities in 130+ countries.

•Compensation Cap: Raised to 1,519 SDR (≈₹1,81,000) in 2024.

•Loss or Delay Definition: Luggage is lost after 21 days. Damage must be reported within 7 days.

•Proof Needed: File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Domestic Airline Rules (India - DGCA)

•₹20,000 max liability for loss/delay/damage on local flights (if SDR not applied).

•Higher compensation possible if value declared before boarding.

•Valuables like electronics should be declared or insured.

What Counts as Baggage Delay, Loss, and Damage?

•Delayed: Luggage that doesn't arrive with your flight; emergency purchases can be reimbursed.

•Lost: Not returned within 21 days; eligible for full legal compensation.

•Damaged: Must report within 7 days; airlines pay for repairs or replacement.

Also, check our blog post: Steps to Take When Your Baggage Doesn’t Arrive.

When Natural Disasters Disrupt Your Travel

What Airlines Must Do

•Offer rebooking or return if the ticket remains valid.

•May offer meals/hotels depending on airline policies and local law.

What Travel Insurance May Cover

•Unutilized bookings (hotels, tours).

•Evacuation costs in emergencies.

•Extra meals/lodging if not covered by airline.

Claim Process: Step-by-Step

Immediately After Baggage Loss or Delay

•Report the issue at the airport desk.

•Get your Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

•Keep receipts of emergency purchases.

Filing the Claim

•Report damage within 7 days; delay/loss within 21 days.

•Submit flight pass, PIR, and expense proofs.

•Follow up if needed; escalate through airline grievance redressal or legal means.

Travel Insurance: Your Financial Safety Net

Airline liability may not cover everything. Insurance fills the gaps, especially for:

•High-value items (laptops, electronics, designer wear).

•Hotel costs due to cancelled flights.

•Medical emergencies caused by natural disasters.

Why Buy Travel Insurance?

•Trip delay benefits: ₹2,000–₹50,000

•Baggage loss coverage: Up to ₹1,00,000 or more

•Natural disaster cover: Includes evacuation and lodging

Legal Precedents

•Visakhapatnam (2023): ₹40,000 compensation by Air India for delayed luggage.

•Mumbai (2025): ₹1.25 lakh + ₹10,000 for mental agony after Flynas lost a bag; based on the Montreal Convention.

Emergency Prep Tips for Travellers

•Label bags and insert travel itinerary inside.

•Carry valuables and meds only in hand luggage.

•Install airline & emergency alert apps.

•Carry printed copies of tickets, policy, bookings.

Conclusion

Under international law, you may claim up to ₹1.81 lakhs for lost baggage; within India, up to ₹20,000. But airlines may not always cover full costs. Travel insurance is essential to bridge gaps, protect against high-value losses, and provide security during natural disasters.

Stay informed, act fast, and never travel without insurance.

FAQs

1. Will my travel insurance pay for all lost bags?
Not always. Check your policy for exclusions and coverage limits for valuables.

2. What happens if a natural disaster cancels my flight?
Airlines may offer refunds or rebooking. Travel insurance usually covers extra costs like hotels and rebookings.

3. What proof do I need for delayed baggage claims?
PIR, ID, boarding pass, and receipts of emergency purchases. File within claim deadlines for best results.

Know natural disasters cover in travel insurance

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Difference between Trip Cancellation and Cancel for any Reason Coverage

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. Always refer to official policy wordings and terms before purchase.