Air France Lost My Bag — Step-by-Step Guide to Getting It Back (2025)

If you’ve just landed in Paris or Lyon and realized your checked luggage didn’t make it with you, don’t panic — you’re not alone. Lost luggage happens more often than you think, and Air France actually has one of the more reliable recovery systems in the airline world. Here’s exactly what to do if Air France lost your bag, how to track it, and what compensation you may be entitled to.

Step 1: Report the Missing Bag Immediately

As soon as you realize your bag didn’t show up on the carousel, head straight to the Air France baggage service desk in the arrivals hall. Don’t leave the airport without reporting it — that’s the most common mistake travelers make.

You’ll need:

Your passport or ID

Your baggage claim tag (the small sticker they gave you at check-in)

Your boarding pass

Once you report it, Air France will file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) — this is your official lost luggage case number. Write it down or take a photo of the receipt.

If you’ve already left the airport, you can still file online at:
Air France Missing Baggage Portal
(search “report missing baggage”).

Step 2: Track Your Bag in Real Time

Air France’s WorldTracer system allows passengers to track the progress of their lost luggage. You’ll find your unique PIR number (something like “CDGAF12345”) on your report.

You can check your bag’s status at:
https://wtrweb.worldtracer.aero/

Statuses might show:

Located at another airport (often during layovers)

In transit to your destination

Delivered or awaiting courier pickup

Most bags are found within 24–48 hours, though international transfers can take up to 5 days.

Step 3: Know Your Rights (and Compensation Options)

If Air France loses your bag for more than a day, you may be eligible for reimbursement of essential items like toiletries, undergarments, and basic clothing. Keep all your receipts.

Under the Montreal Convention, compensation for delayed or lost luggage is capped at 1,288 SDR (approx. $1,750 USD) per passenger. You’ll need to file a written claim within:

21 days for delayed baggage

7 days for damaged baggage

You can submit your claim through Air France’s official site or by contacting their Baggage Customer Care via the Air France Help Center.

Step 4: If Your Bag Is Declared Lost

If after 21 days your baggage still hasn’t been located, Air France officially classifies it as lost. You’ll then receive a luggage replacement form, where you can list your missing items and their estimated values.

Air France will evaluate:

The age and type of items

Proof of purchase (if available)

Standard depreciation rates

Expect your reimbursement within 30–60 days, depending on documentation and payment method.

Step 5: Tips to Prevent Future Luggage Loss

Even though Air France’s system is fairly efficient, prevention is key:

Use a digital luggage tracker (like Apple AirTag or Tile) inside your suitcase

Take a photo of your bag before check-in (and any unique markings)

Label both inside and outside with your name, email, and phone number

Avoid tight connections — bags often get delayed during short layovers at CDG (Paris Charles de Gaulle)

Step 6: Air France Baggage Support Contacts

If you’re still not getting updates, contact Air France directly:

U.S. Baggage Services: +1 (800) 237-2747
Website: www.airfrance.us

Airport Desks: Available at all Air France terminals worldwide

When Your Vacation Plans Are Affected

If your luggage delay disrupts your travel (e.g., missing a wedding outfit or hiking gear), keep receipts for all emergency purchases. Many travel insurance policies — including those through credit cards — offer baggage delay coverage that can refund expenses within the first 12 hours.

Real Traveler Insight

Travelers often report that Air France staff at Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) are responsive and proactive about luggage tracking. That said, communication can slow down once your bag is handed to a third-party courier for delivery — so stay in touch with both Air France and the courier until it’s in your hands.

Final Thoughts

While losing your luggage can ruin the first day of your trip, Air France’s lost baggage recovery rate is high, and most travelers are reunited with their belongings quickly. The key is to act fast, stay organized, and keep all documentation.

By following these steps, you’ll minimize the stress and get back to enjoying your trip — whether that’s sipping espresso in Paris, skiing in the Alps, or relaxing on the Riviera.