On December 5, 2024, the Delhi District Commission held Tata SIA Airlines, the joint venture between the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, liable for damaging the baggage of a passenger, Aakanksha Bajoria. The ruling comes after Bajoria filed a complaint against the airline, seeking compensation for the damage caused to her luggage during her travel.
According to the complaint, Bajoria’s checked-in baggage was found to be severely damaged upon arrival at her destination. She claimed that the airline’s handling procedures were negligent, leading to the luggage’s compromised condition. Despite her efforts to resolve the issue directly with the airline, including requesting compensation, Bajoria reported insufficient response from Tata SIA Airlines, prompting her to take legal action.
The Delhi District Commission, after reviewing the evidence and hearing both parties, found Tata SIA Airlines at fault for the mishandling of the baggage. The Commission ruled in favor of Bajoria, directing the airline to compensate her for the damage caused. Additionally, the ruling underscored the airline’s responsibility to ensure proper care and handling of passengers’ belongings, especially during air travel, where baggage is often subjected to rough handling.
This judgment serves as a reminder to airlines about the importance of upholding customer service standards and taking responsibility for any damages caused during the flight. It also highlights the increasing consumer awareness of their rights and willingness to pursue legal action when they believe those rights have been violated.
Tata SIA Airlines has been instructed to take necessary steps to prevent similar incidents in the future, including revisiting its baggage handling procedures. This ruling may encourage other passengers who have faced similar issues with airlines to seek redressal through legal channels.
