SingaporeMy luggage was damaged by the airline. How do I claim?
You can claim compensation from the airline for damaged luggage under the Carriage by Air Act, which applies to international flights and sets limits and procedures for claims.
What the Law Says
The Carriage by Air Act governs passenger and baggage rights on international flights departing from or arriving in Singapore. It incorporates the Montreal Convention, setting clear rules for liability when luggage is damaged.
Under the Carriage by Air Act, airlines are liable for damage to checked baggage during international carriage — meaning flights between Singapore and another country. This includes damage that occurs between the time the airline takes possession of your baggage and when it’s delivered to you.
You must report damage to the airline without delay — no later than 7 days after receiving your baggage. For delayed baggage, you must file a complaint within 21 days of its delivery. Failure to meet these deadlines may bar your claim unless you can prove the airline was at fault.
The airline’s maximum liability for damaged or lost baggage is approximately S$2,500 (1,131 Special Drawing Rights, converted at prevailing rates). You may claim more only if you declared a higher value in advance and paid an extra fee.
Statutory TextThe carrier is liable for damage sustained in case of destruction or loss of, or damage to, checked baggage upon condition only that the event which caused the damage so sustained took place on board the aircraft or during any of the operations of embarking or disembarking.
— Carriage by Air Act, s. 3 — Liability for damage to baggage
What to Do
Inspect your baggage immediately upon collection and note visible damage.
File a written complaint (‘Property Irregularity Report’ or PIR) with the airline before leaving the airport or within 7 days.
Keep all evidence: boarding pass, baggage tag, photos of damage, repair receipts, and the PIR reference number.
If the airline rejects or underpays your claim, escalate to the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) or consider small claims tribunal (if under S$20,000).
File legal action within 2 years from the date of arrival, or date the flight should have arrived.
Sources
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JapanNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.