Delayed or damaged baggage
Delayed baggage
If you can’t find your bags, see an agent at the airport after landing or you'll need to return. The agent will give you a 13-character file reference number to use when filing your claim.
Find your bags
Check the status of your bags using your name and 13-charcater file reference number.
Bags delayed 5+ days
If your bag has been missing for 5 or more days, we'll need more information to help you. To get started, fill out a Passenger Property Questionnaire including the 13-character file reference number you received at the airport.
What happens next?
Our Central Baggage Resolution Office will make every effort to locate your bag, but if we are unsuccessful a final resolution will be made in line with:
This decision will be sent to you by regular U.S. mail. While you wait, you can contact us for status updates. On the contact form, choose 'Status of delayed bags' from the 'Subject' pull-down menu, then fill in your information.
Reimbursement
We will reimburse you for items you need immediately while away from home without your bags. Within 45 days of your delay, please send us:
Your 13-character file reference number
A copy of your ticket receipt and baggage claim checks
Your original, dated, itemized receipts
Send verification items to:
American Airlines Central Baggage
4000 East Sky Harbor Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Fax: 480-693-2305
Damaged baggage
If you notice damage to your bags, see an agent before leaving the airport or contact us within 24 hours for domestic flights and 7 days for international flights.* We'll give you a 13-character file reference number to use when filing your claim.
To be considered for reimbursement, fill out a Passenger Property Questionnaire including the 13-character file reference number you received when you reported your damage.
*Reports made outside the recommended time periods may affect reimbursements.
Damage from (TSA) inspections
If your bag is inspected by Transportation Security Administration (TSA), they’ll place a written notification inside or a seal on the outside. If you think the damage was caused by an inspection, please contact TSA at 866-289-9673.
To reduce the risk of damage, avoid:
Over-packing
Checking bags that won’t close completely
Checking carry-on items such as laptops, briefcases and totes
Traveling with extremely old or worn luggage
Packing restricted items
Still have questions?
If you're still unsure how to move forward with your baggage claim, please contact us. On the contact form, choose 'Status of delayed bags' from the 'Subject' pull-down menu, then fill in your information.