Why does the Miami airport hold the world record for lost luggage? The Miami International Airport (MIA) is one of the busiest airports in the U.S. because it’s a key connection to flights in the entire continent. However, a recent study showed something negative about it: this airport holds the highest number of suitcases lost in the whole world! Of course, it’s in the last position when it comes to luggage management. So, let’s learn more about his Miami airport, shall we?
Miami at the top of the global ranking
According to the analysis by Arka company, published in Travel + Leisure, in the Miami airport around 5.5 suitcases per each 100 passengers are lost. With this data, Miami International Airport surpasses other airports in the U.S. and in the entire world!
In this ranking we will find at the second position the Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). Next we have Singapur’s famous Changi Airport (SIN), which is considered by many people as one of the most modern in the world. In this ranking there are other airports like Denver International Airport (DIA) and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in the group of presenting big problems.
How was this study made?
The report took into account two main factors:
- The number of passengers going through each airport.
- Online searches related to lost objects services.
To make fair comparisons, data was adjusted to each million of passengers.
Why Miami loses so many suitcases
Arka’s spokesperson explained that losing your luggage can ruin your travel and some airports have more difficulties than others to manage this issue. When it comes to Miami, the huge number of international flights and the high number of passengers are key factors.
The study also points out several common reasons behind delays or luggage loss:
- Thunderstorms: when there is lightning, ground crews must stop their work because of safety reasons. Of course, this leads to delayed baggage transfers.
- Airport size: the bigger the airport, the more suitcases last to go from the plane to the carousel.
- Full flights: with more passengers on a plane, the amount of suitcases that needs to be processed is higher so people will have to wait longer. What’s more, the rule of ‘’the first to enter, the first to leave’’makes those passengers who register their luggage earlier, receive it earlier too.
- Technological infrastructure: some airports already have automatized systems to manage luggage whereas others still depend on manual processes, which increase the chances of making mistakes.
Global issue
Even though Miami leads this ranking, luggage loss is a worldwide problem. According to Arka, it is estimated that about 26 million suitcases are lost every year around the world, which makes it one of the biggest frustrations for passengers who just want to have a nice flight.
Tips for passengers in Miami
This report warns about how important it is that passengers are aware about these risks and take additional precautions. Some of the most recommended measures are:
- Having more time between connecting flights: this way your luggage can be transferred with no hurry.
- Investing in tracking devices: we mean devices like AirTags, so that you can track your luggage in case it gets lost.
- Plan check-in earlier: suitcases that are registered first, tend to be unloaded first at baggage claim.
Apart from all of this, Arka’ spokesperson highlighted the importance of investing in more modern systems to improve luggage management and guarantee that passengers’ belongings reach the airport in a safe way and on time. Obviously, this goes to Miami International Airport too.
We hope these tips are helpful on your next flight, have you ever experienced anything similar?