American Airlines has faced several lawsuits in the last few months. A former flight attendant accused the airline of race and disability discrimination, and a passenger has filed a lawsuit claiming the airline broke FAA laws by allowing a drunk passenger on board.
Now, American Airlines is once again facing a lawsuit. A passenger is suing the carrier and asking for compensation totaling over $50,000. According to the male passenger, the company lost his luggage on a flight to Switzerland, which led to his rapid mental decline and consequent hospitalization at a psychiatric facility.
American Airlines Passenger Seeks $50,000, Claiming Lost Luggage Triggered A Mental Health Crisis That Led To Psychiatric Hospitalization Abroad
Passenger airplane American Airlines Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner N872AN taking off from Swiss Airport Zürich KlotenCredit: Shutterstock
A Colorado man has filed a lawsuit against American Airlines seeking over $50,000 in compensation to cover his medical bills. The passenger claims his mental health deteriorated quickly after the carrier lost his luggage on a flight to Switzerland.
The man booked a trip from the U.S. to Switzerland, consisting of three separate flights. While the first was operated by American Airlines, the following two were codeshare flights operated by Iberia.
The passenger allegedly left his luggage at the check-in counter in Baton Rouge, hoping to find it at Zurich Airport upon arrival. Unfortunately, however, once he reached his final destination and waited for his bags, he realized the carrier had lost his belongings.
The passenger claims he was forced to leave the airport with only his carry-on and without adequate clothing for the freezing weather in Switzerland. According to him, while he attempted to purchase warm clothes, the high prices typical of Switzerland prevented him from doing so, which contributed to his mental health decline.
People walk by American Airlines check in help desk at airportCredit:Â via Shutterstock
The American Airlines customer repeatedly tried to contact American Airlines to share details about the luggage location, thanks to an Apple AirTag placed in the luggage. However, he claims his attempts to provide the airline with this information were ignored.
As his mental health continued to deteriorate, he was eventually admitted to three different psychiatric hospitals, where he spent over a month. At the end of his hospitalization period, the man was presented with a medical bill of over $50,000.
After several weeks, in April 2024, American Airlines finally returned his luggage. Roughly seven days later, the man returned to the U.S.
He has now filed a lawsuit asking for compensation for his medical bills, including $4,700 for his lost baggage.
The Montreal Convention Establishes A Maximum Of $2,175.00 For Lost Luggage
Male traveler passenger walking with a black luggage at the modern Airport Terminal, Back view of man on way to flight boarding gate, Ready for travel or vacation journey.Credit:Â via Shutterstock
The Montreal Convention is a multilateral treaty signed by several countries that establishes a framework for airline liability in case of baggage loss or damage, as well as for passenger injury or death.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, passengers whose luggage was lost on an international flight are eligible for a maximum refund of $2,175. This is below what the American Airlines passenger is requesting in compensation in his lawsuit.
For domestic flights, however, the maximum is higher, and is currently set at $4,700, which is the exact amount the man is asking for. For now, it remains unclear whether he’ll win the lawsuit, though there are a few steps travelers can take to avoid similar situations.
How Passengers Can Better Prepare For Lost Luggage
Opting for a direct flight can make a huge difference, as this drastically reduces the risk of luggage getting lost. Those on a short trip can also choose to bring only a carry-on bag, eliminating the risk entirely.
However, if this is not possible, passengers are advised to add a tag to their checked luggage with their information and to remove all stickers from previous airlines to avoid confusion. Travelers are also urged to pack all essential items in their carry-on luggage. This includes medicines, documents, wallets, and so on.
Once it’s clear that one’s luggage has been lost, travelers should file a baggage claim with their airline as soon as possible. Some carriers also provide emergency supplies upon request. These usually include essential items such as a toothbrush and other toiletries.
While these tips may help travelers minimize the chances of losing their luggage, the risk remains. If this happens, passengers should be ready to follow up with their airline regularly and be patient. Chances are, the luggage will be returned within a few days.