As holiday travel approaches, many are excited to reunite with family and friends, but nothing dampens the spirit more than lost or damaged luggage. Research conducted by FinanceBuzz analyzed official TSA data and Bureau of Transportation Statistics reports to reveal which airlines and airports mishandle the most baggage during the busy Christmas season.
Key Findings
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) has the highest rate of mishandled baggage at 2.6 bags per 100,000 passengers.
- American Airlines led in reported mishandled bags, with 6.5 bags lost or damaged for every 1,000 bags handled.
- During last December alone, airlines mishandled over 214,000 bags nationwide.
Airlines with the Most Mishandled Bags
Last holiday season, American Airlines recorded the highest percentage of mishandled baggage, equating to 6.5 out of every 1,000 bags. This staggering statistic indicates that a passenger’s bag was often lost or damaged on many flights. In contrast, Delta Air Lines performed significantly better, with only 3.6 mishandled bags per 1,000, translating to fewer complaints.
Airports with the Most Mishandled Baggage
When it comes to airports, JFK tops the list for the highest number of complaints related to lost or damaged luggage, filing an average of one complaint per day throughout the holiday season. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) follows closely behind. Below is a breakdown of the airports:
| Airport | Mishandled Bags per 100K Passengers |
|---|---|
| John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) | 2.59 |
| Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) | 2.32 |
| Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) | 1.72 |
| Miami International Airport (MIA) | 1.64 |
| Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) | 1.52 |
Tips for Holiday Travelers
To minimize the risk of luggage mishandling, consider using credit card points for airfare. Keep an eye on fluctuating prices by using apps like Hopper, and subscribe to low airfare alerts from websites like Going, enabling you to snag great deals easily.
In summary, while the holiday season is joyous, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with airline travel. Knowing which airlines and airports have higher rates of mishandled luggage can help travelers make informed decisions this festive season.
Source: FinanceBuzz
