In a contentious legal dispute, Air Canada has taken passenger Alaa Tannous to Federal Court, challenging a ruling from the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) that awarded him $2,079 CDN following a luggage mishap during a flight in 2022. Tannous and his wife, Nancy, experienced significant inconvenience when their checked luggage went missing, prompting them to incur substantial expenses for clothing and necessities while waiting for its return.
The couple's luggage was returned less than 24 hours after the incident, but not before they faced the challenge of replacing essential items. Tannous initially sought $3,435 CDN in compensation, claiming he was informed by an Air Canada employee that they could expense "a reasonable amount" for necessary replacements. However, the airline countered with a mere $250 offer, which Tannous deemed insufficient to cover the costs he incurred.
In a breakdown of Tannous's expenses, Air Canada highlighted that he spent $570.12 CDN on toiletries and skincare, $1,121.86 CDN on clothing, $247.52 CDN on lingerie and sleepwear, and $525.50 CDN on underwear, jeans, and t-shirts. The airline argued that these expenses were unreasonable given the short duration of the luggage delay.
The CTA’s ruling acknowledged that the amount awarded to Tannous was only enough to cover basic necessities. While Air Canada is obligated to reimburse travelers for reasonable expenses related to delayed baggage, it also maintains guidelines that require travelers to submit verified receipts for reimbursement.
Tannous expressed frustration over the situation, stating, "I believed in the system, which is my mistake." He also remarked on the disappointment he felt regarding the airline's decision to appeal a claim of only $2,000 after years of loyal patronage.
Air Canada has asserted that the maximum compensation for lost or delayed baggage is approximately $2,400 and insists that Tannous's claims exceed that threshold. This legal battle highlights the ongoing challenges passengers face when dealing with airline policies and compensation practices.
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