United Tops 2026 List for Mishandled Bags
More than one million bags were affected during the year’s first six months, federal data shows.
United Airlines recorded the highest mishandled-baggage rate among marketing carriers during the first half of 2026, based on U.S. Department of Transportation figures. The measure covers luggage that is lost, damaged, delayed or stolen, including bags handled by codeshare operators within a carrier’s network.
The total exceeded one million bags during the first six months, even though an individual traveler’s chance of encountering a problem remained below 1%. American Airlines ranked second after leading the comparison from 2020 through 2024; United moved ahead in 2025 and has stayed on top so far this year. Spirit ranked fifth among nine carriers, despite ending operations May 2.
Federal rules require airlines to reimburse travelers when checked bags are lost, delayed or damaged. For domestic trips, the maximum liability is $4,700. Airlines may exclude some belongings, including fragile goods, from damage claims. The Transportation Department says travelers should notify the airline promptly about missing or damaged luggage. A bag can be classified as lost between five and 14 days after a flight, depending on the circumstances.
- United’s network ranked first in the 2026 comparison.
- American’s network placed second after several years in first place.
- Spirit was fifth among nine marketing carriers.
- Domestic baggage liability is capped at $4,700.
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