A Property Irregularity Report records a baggage problem and creates a tracing reference. It helps connect the bag, passenger and flight, but it may not count as the later written compensation claim. Keep the PIR, verify its details and follow the operating airline's official claim instructions within the applicable period.
What a PIR is
PIR stands for Property Irregularity Report. Airlines and ground handlers use it to record baggage that is delayed, damaged or missing. The report normally includes passenger details, flight information, the bag tag number, a description of the suitcase and a tracing reference.
The reference may appear in formats used by the airline's baggage tracing system. Save it exactly as issued. A single wrong character can make an online status search fail and can slow down later correspondence.
Check these details at the desk
Read the report before walking away. Airport baggage desks are busy, and a report created from a rushed description can contain a wrong bag colour, flight number or delivery address. Corrections are easier while you are still speaking to the handler.
- passenger name and contact details
- flight number, date and routing
- baggage tag number
- suitcase type, colour and distinctive features
- delivery address and local phone number
- the exact damage description when the bag arrived damaged
Why the PIR may not be your written claim
The PIR starts tracing and records the incident. Compensation usually requires a separate written submission through the airline's official form, portal or correspondence address. That later claim explains the loss, requests a remedy and attaches receipts or value evidence.
This distinction matters because the Montreal Convention sets complaint periods for baggage damage and delay. EU guidance states that a written complaint for lost or damaged luggage should be made within seven days, while a delayed-baggage complaint should be made within 21 days after the bag is received.
Turn the report into an evidence chain
A strong claim lets the reviewer follow one reference from check-in to final loss. Use the same passenger name, flight, baggage tag and PIR number across the letter, expense schedule and attachments. Explain any mismatch instead of leaving it unexplained.
BagClaim uses the PIR as one part of the pack, alongside the travel record, receipts, photographs and timeline. It does not submit the claim for you and it does not replace the operating airline's official filing route.
Primary sources
We use primary and official material for the deadlines and liability framework in this guide. Airline conditions and the facts of an individual journey still need to be checked.
Turn the checklist into a reviewable claim.
Check the timeline, organise the receipts and build the letter before opening the airline's official filing route.
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