TAP damaged baggage compensation.
Are you entitled to compensation from TAP? What are the rules?
The thrill of embarking on a journey, whether for business or leisure, is often accompanied by the excitement of exploring new destinations and immersing oneself in unique experiences. However, amidst the anticipation of travel, there’s one unfortunate reality that can mar our adventures: damaged baggage. Discovering your cherished belongings in disarray upon arrival can be disheartening, but it’s essential to remember that you have rights as a passenger.
What to do if your luggage is damaged?
What to Do If Your Luggage Is Damaged?
Discovering that your baggage has been damaged can be disheartening, but taking immediate action is crucial to ensure fair compensation. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, here’s what you should do.
As soon as you spot the damage, head to the Baggage Service Office located near the baggage carousels in the baggage hall. It’s essential to do this before leaving the airport. Bring along your passport, boarding pass, and your damaged bag. Fill out a report detailing the damage, providing as much information as possible. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through the process and inform you of the next steps.
If you skip this, you won’t get damaged baggage compensation.
If your bag is repairable, the airline will typically cover the cost of repairs. However, if the damage is beyond repair, they will replace your baggage. The airline’s policy may vary, so make sure to inquire about the available options during the reporting process.
TAP Damaged Baggage Compensation
What are your rights if your baggage is damaged?
Could you be entitled to TAP baggage compensation of some sort?
Damaged Baggage Compensation
TAP is responsible for substantial damage to your checked bag during your flight.
If your checked baggage is significantly damaged during your TAP flight, the airline is responsible for providing compensation. You can file a claim to receive up to €1300, which correlates to the bag’s value and covers the cost of a new equivalent bag. Payments will be made via bank transfer, and you’re not obligated to accept vouchers or coupons instead of cash. The law in Europe requires all compensation and refunds to be issued to customers’ bank accounts.
It’s important to keep in mind that TAP is not liable to fully compensate valuable items such as electronics, art, or jewelry packed in checked baggage, according to the Montreal Convention and TAP’s Conditions of Carriage. We suggest avoiding packing such items in your checked bags.
Keep in mind the fact that while your baggage is in the process of being handled and transported through airport facilities, it may experience normal and unavoidable wear and tear.
Therefore, TAP cannot assume responsibility for minor damages, including but not limited to: scratches on the surface of your baggage, small signs of dirt or marks, minor cuts or dents, issues with zipper pullers, damage caused by excessive content within your baggage and loss of removable or detachable accessories.
Reimbursement of Expenses
The airline is unable to reimburse any expenses if your baggage is damaged.
However, if your baggage is lost or delayed, you may claim compensation for essential items that you had to replace. This compensation is commonly referred to as delayed baggage compensation. To file a claim, keep the receipts of the necessary items and submit them to TAP within 21 days from the day you receive your delayed baggage.
Please note that this policy only applies to lost or delayed baggage situations and not to cases involving damaged baggage.
Is Travel Insurance Necessary?
Should I get travel insurance?
Yes and no. Although airlines are held responsible for baggage under the Montreal Convention, travel insurance can still provide additional benefits. In cases of damaged baggage, having travel insurance can expedite the compensation process.
However, it’s important to note that not all policies cover this type of damage, so research beforehand to avoid any unforeseen surprises. To receive compensation for the cash value or price of your baggage, you will need paperwork from the Baggage Service Office. Be sure to contact your insurance company after reporting any damage to learn about the next steps.
But if you don’t have insurance, you still can claim compensation for damaged baggage.
Travel Prepared
When traveling, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for any unexpected situations.
Although baggage doesn’t often get seriously damaged, it’s best to prepare for this possibility, pack an extra set of clothes and underwear in your carry-on bag in case your checked baggage is misplaced or damaged.
To avoid losing valuable items, money, medicine, important documents, and credit cards, it’s important not to keep them in your checked baggage, as these items may be lost or damaged if your bag suffers significant damage.
Consider packing a packable or foldable duffle bag in your baggage as well. This bag can come in handy if your main baggage gets damaged and you need to shift your belongings. Additionally, if you need extra space for your items during your trip, you can use the duffle bag to carry additional items.
What is your experience with baggage damage and TAP? Have you ever received damaged baggage compensation from TAP or other airline?
Please note that the rules for compensation for delayed or lost baggage with TAP are the same as those for other airlines. This is due to the Montreal Convention, which applies to the carriage of baggage on most international flights operated by TAP and other airlines globally.
Featured photo by Markus Winkler from Pexels