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WASHINGTON - Airlines shouldn't be too cheap when it comes to helping customers whose bags are lost.
The Transportation Department said Friday airlines can't arbitrarily limit reimbursement for travelers who have to replace necessities when bags are lost or delayed.
The department noted that several airlines have policies saying they'll only reimburse passengers for necessities purchased more than 24 hours after they arrive without their baggage. They also limit payments to outbound trips, meaning customers foot the bill for replacing items lost on the flight back home.
The agency said those policies violate federal rules requiring airlines to cover all expenses caused by lost or delayed baggage up to $3,300 per passenger on domestic flights.
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Airlines usually spell out their policies in the contract of carriage on their Web sites. For the largest six U.S. carriers — Delta, American, United, Continental, Southwest and US Airways — their policies clearly state they will cover up to the legally required $3,300.
Information about reimbursements for necessities such as toiletries is often contained in printed handouts from ticket agents or other airline employees.
Officials for American, Southwest and JetBlue said they were in compliance with the Transportation Department notice. Representatives of other carriers said they were studying the department's order.
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