Air Travel Could Be Better. My Rant to Bad Baggage Handlers.

Written by Andrew Young.

Andrew Young now writes for Aviation Buzz every weekend. You can read his bio on the “About” page.

First off I want to say I know the majority of baggage handlers are good people, but those few that are not, are giving all baggage handlers a bad name. Recently at Bradley International Airport, 10 baggage handlers were arrested on charges that they were stealing electronics, cologne, five foot wooden African masks, and other expensive items. These items were taken out of checked luggage and air cargo. The majority of the baggage handlers were employed by Delta Global Services.

About one year ago it was discovered that baggage handlers at Newark International Airport had stolen about 2 million in U.S. Treasury Checks out of mail going into cargo holds. In September of 2008, a pair of baggage handlers were caught stealing almost $300,000 in jewelry from suitcases. Back in February of this year, a college student made national news when he complained to the media of the airlines “losing” an expensive, special edition XBOX.

Air travel is already a hassle with strict security, hidden costs, and delays. Now add to the list the fear of baggage handlers stealing belongings. Most airlines are now charging extra for checked luggage; that should entail that those airlines put more effort into protecting those checked bags from being lost and making sure its employees are not stealing from them.

Let me hear what you think. I believe it is only a few bad eggs, but it still it frustrates the heck out of me not only worrying about my belongings being stolen, but that I get to pay $25 to have that opportunity when I check a bag. For now I suggest packing light and taking advantage of your carry on.