Landing in India after a long international flight only to discover that your baggage is missing can be extremely stressful. Whether it’s delayed or lost altogether, you’re not alone — baggage mishandling is one of the most common travel issues faced by international visitors arriving in India. But don’t panic. The Indian aviation system and international airline protocols provide clear passenger rights and a step-by-step resolution process to help you recover your belongings or get compensated.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do if your luggage hasn’t arrived, your legal rights, and how Indian Travel Help can assist you.
🚨 First Things First: Stay Calm & Report Immediately
Step 1: Visit the Airline’s Baggage Desk
The moment you realize your luggage hasn’t arrived, go straight to the baggage service counter near the luggage carousel. This counter is usually operated by ground staff representing your airline or its Indian handling partner.
You will need to:
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Show your boarding pass and baggage tags
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Describe your baggage (color, size, brand)
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Fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR)
Step 2: Get a Reference Number
Make sure you get a PIR reference number and contact details for follow-up. This number will help you track your baggage and is essential for future claims or compensation.
🎯 Your Rights as a Passenger in India
As per international aviation rules and India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) guidelines, you are entitled to certain rights when your baggage is delayed, lost, or damaged.
✔ Right to Free Delivery
If your bag is delayed and eventually found, the airline must deliver it to your hotel or residence in India at no cost.
✔ Right to Essentials Reimbursement
You may be eligible for reimbursement for essential items (toiletries, basic clothing, etc.) bought while waiting for your baggage. Keep all original receipts.
✔ Right to Compensation
If your baggage is declared lost (usually after 21 days), airlines are liable to compensate based on the Montreal Convention. The compensation is usually calculated per kilogram, up to a fixed amount (approximately ₹1,20,000 in most cases).
🛬 Common Airports Where Issues Occur
Most baggage mishandling cases in India are reported at:
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Delhi IGI Airport (DEL)
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Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport (BOM)
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Bengaluru Kempegowda Airport (BLR)
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Chennai International Airport (MAA)
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Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi Airport (HYD)
No matter the location, the recovery and compensation procedures are standard across all international terminals.
📦 Tracking Your Baggage
You can track your bag online using your PIR number via:
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Your airline’s official website (e.g., Lufthansa, Emirates, British Airways)
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Third-party tracking platforms like WorldTracer
📁 Documents You’ll Need for Claims
To file a compensation claim, you’ll typically need:
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Copy of passport
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Boarding pass
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Baggage tag
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PIR report
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Receipts for any essential purchases
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Proof of expenses (hotel stay, transport, etc. if affected)
If you face resistance or confusion during this process, Indian Travel Help can guide you in preparing a strong claim package.
❌ What Not to Do
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Don’t leave the airport without reporting the missing bag
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Don’t discard your baggage tag
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Don’t rely only on verbal assurances—get everything in writing or email
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Don’t delay follow-up beyond the airline’s claim window (usually 7 days for delay, 21 days for lost baggage)
🧭 How Indian Travel Help Supports You
At Indian Travel Help, we specialize in assisting international tourists with real-time baggage recovery, documentation, and compensation processing. Our local support team can:
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File and follow up on PIRs on your behalf
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Coordinate with airline ground staff
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Help translate and submit compensation documents
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Ensure legal compliance and escalate complaints if needed
Whether your bag is delayed for a few hours or lost entirely, we are your on-ground travel support partner in India.
We’re available 24/7 to help you recover lost baggage, process claims, and continue your journey stress-free.
✅ Pro Tips to Avoid Baggage Mishaps
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Always carry essentials (medicines, chargers, 1 change of clothes) in your hand luggage
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Take photos of your suitcase before check-in
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Use a unique luggage tag and identifiable marking
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Label your bag clearly with your Indian address and contact number
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Arrive early to ensure smoother baggage handling during check-in
Conclusion
Lost or delayed baggage doesn’t have to ruin your travel experience in India. Airlines have a legal obligation to return your luggage or compensate you appropriately. By acting fast, keeping good records, and knowing your rights, you can take control of the situation.
☎️ Need Help Now?
📧 Email: support@indiantravelhelp.com
🌍 Website: www.indiantravelhelp.com/contact
For personalized guidance and expert support, trust Indian Travel Help — your reliable partner on the ground in India.
