In 2024, the aviation industry saw a significant increase in the number of lost luggage at airports around the world, totalling more than 36 million in lost travel luggage items or suitcases. This situation is mainly due to the chaotic resumption of air travel after the pandemic and often poor logistics management. Although some companies have improved their tracking systems, the rate of mismanagement remains a ongoing concern.
Despite technological advances, lost luggage causes great inconvenience for passengers, so efforts to improve the safe transportation of personal belongings are essential. Air travel is becoming more common, but luggage management remains a major challenge for airlines around the world.
Airline Progress and Efforts
Global airline operators efforts to improve luggage management seems to be working better than in previous years, with the incidence of mishandled luggage has decreased slightly from 7.6 to 6.9 cases per 1,000 passengers. SITA (who provides IT services to the global aviation community) says this progress is mainly due to the introduction of new technology and improved collaboration between the various actors in the aviation industry. While the progress is welcome, more efforts need to be made to minimise the inconvenience caused by lost luggage.
Technology and Innovation
The introduction of new technology is a key lever to reduce mishandled luggage. Companies such as Ryanair and Qantas have introduced real-time tracking systems that allow passengers to locate their baggage through a mobile application. This innovation helps to increase passenger peace of mind and improve the travel experience. However, many airlines have yet to integrate these solutions to achieve significant results.
Airports on the Frontline
Airports play a key role in luggage management and handling. In fact, Japan celebrated 30 years of zero-loss operations at Kansai Airport, an exemplary achievement for the industry. Some airports have taken measures such as improved logistics and better staff training to reduce luggage-related accidents. Initiatives such as the return to the 100ml limit for liquids introduced in European airports also aim to reduce luggage screening errors. These joint efforts demonstrate the importance of close cooperation between all parties involved.
Impact on Travellers
Lost luggage can turn a dream trip into a nightmare. Travellers are asked to report missing luggage to the destination airport help desk. Travel insurance and airline compensation policies usually provide legal remedies, although with limitations. To avoid such inconveniences, we also recommend practical advice, such as travelling with only one piece of luggage.
Looking Forward to the Future
Although the number of mishandled bags has dropped slightly over the last year, there is still a long way to go to achieve optimal luggage management. As air traffic continues to grow, airports and airlines need to intensify their efforts to stay ahead. International cooperation, digital transformation and a focus on customer satisfaction remain priorities that could be key to a future where lost luggage is a distant memory.
