I checked in a tool box on a flight from SJC to DFW. When it arrived on the carousel, a lock and hasp had broken off, rendering the security of the box nil. Called Delta baggage, it "wasn't a suitcase" so they had no responsibility. I suggested that "in the old days" they would satisfy the claim, I'm talking a $40.00 tool box vs. a happy customer (15-20 round trips/yr.). To paraphrase, "yeah, then we would have taken care of it, but now we're losing $1M". So, if I'm a frequent flyer I'm taking up the slack for those who don't or won't fly?

I'm sorry about the damage you've suffered, but who checks in a tool box?. Considering that the suitcases sharing the luggage carousel weigh up to 100 lbs each (or more), it's not surprising that a relatively small item would be broken , probably by one of your fellow passenger's massive luggage. I'm not so sure that "in the olden days" you would have been compensated either. I guess the thing to do would be to pack the tools (and box) into a suitcase

You should write the airline a letter. At the very least they could comp you some upgrade coupons for future travel.

Let me get this straight. You are trying to get 40 bucks from the airline?

Isn't your time worth anything?

I'd let it drop and next time just pack your tools in a suitcase.

To Jon: How is spending time on the phone with an airline attempting to get back $40 any more of a waste of time than posting rude reprimands to other posters on Fodor's?

Two words for rICHARD and everyone else who has to trust the airlines to take care of their belongings: DUCT TAPE.

It ain't pretty, but wrapping it around anything you check is a great way to discourage tampering, keep the thing closed even if locks fail, and, if you have pieces that protrude from the box or bag (like locks, etc.), it keeps them flat.

As in everything else, when you check bags, prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

To Madge

I make have been direct, but I don't see that I was rude. Please reread my comments.

His time would have been better spent contacting management not "Delta Baggage".

The airlines don't assume liability for normmal wear and tear. Who's to say that the lock wasn't loose before it was put into cargo.

Would you fight a $40 parking ticket if it meant taking time off from work. sometimes it's best to save your efforts for bigger battles.