Delayed baggage accounted for 74% of incidents, while lost or stolen bags made up 8%, and damaged or pilfered bags rose to 18%.
A new report by SITA reveals that 33.4 million pieces of passenger baggage were mishandled globally in 2024, costing airlines an estimated $5 billion. According to the 2025 Baggage IT Insights, based on data from 280 airlines and IATA, over 66% of these cases were resolved within 48 hours.
Delayed baggage accounted for 74% of incidents, while lost or stolen bags made up 8%, and damaged or pilfered bags rose to 18%. Transfer mishandling led the causes at 41%, followed by tagging issues, loading failures, and operational problems.
SITA CEO David Lavorel said, “Passengers now expect their baggage experience to be as easy and transparent as using a rideshare or delivery app.”
Nicole Hogg, Director of Baggage at SITA, added, “We’re making progress, but baggage still causes stress.”
The report underscores the need for investment in automated and data-driven baggage systems to enhance reliability and passenger satisfaction.