URGENT UPDATE: A Ryanair passenger is voicing outrage after his checked bag, valued at £1,500, was returned in a shocking condition, appearing “ripped to shreds” upon arrival at London Stansted Airport on September 4. Daniel Sakal, a 34-year-old photographer returning from Nice, France, described the scene as “embarrassing” when he discovered his belongings strewn on the floor after being handed a mere bin bag to collect them.
Sakal, who spent around 40 minutes waiting for his luggage, initially thought it was lost when it failed to appear on the conveyor belt. After prompting a Ryanair staff member to assist, he was horrified to see his bag, which he claims was “maimed,” looking like it had been dragged along the runway.
He stated, “I was in shock as my items fell out. It looked like some rat had been at it.” The damage included clothing, a brand-new pair of shoes, and a drone controller. The bag itself, a gift from his wife, cost £200.
After filing a compensation request with Ryanair, Sakal was insulted to receive an offer of only £50, roughly the same amount he paid to check in the bag. “It’s mental,” he expressed, emphasizing the disparity between the compensation and the value of his damaged items.
Social media has erupted in response, with users expressing disbelief at the condition of Sakal’s luggage. Comments ranged from shock to sympathy, with one user questioning, “Did they drag it along the runway under the plane?!”
Ryanair has shifted responsibility to a third-party baggage handler at Nice Airport, stating, “Baggage handling at Nice Airport is provided by a third party (not Ryanair) but is paid for by Ryanair.” However, they did not clarify how they determined the incident was due to the handlers in Nice rather than at Stansted, where the plane landed.
Despite his frustrating experience, Sakal has not received any direct apology from the airline. He stated, “It’s only stuff, but they need to be held accountable. I followed up with five emails just to get a response, and all I received was an automated message.”
As this story develops, it raises important questions about airline accountability and customer service, particularly as travelers prepare for the busy holiday season. For now, Sakal continues to seek justice for the damage done to his belongings and urges others to be cautious when flying with Ryanair.
Next steps for passengers like Sakal include understanding their rights regarding lost or damaged luggage and how to effectively communicate with airlines for better outcomes. Stay tuned for further updates on this story as it unfolds.
