Once you arrive at the arrivals hall and complete all necessary border control formalities, proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your luggage. Clear signs in this area indicate which conveyor belt corresponds to your flight. Typically, luggage retrieval takes between 10 to 45 minutes, depending on the flight’s handling procedures.
Oversized or Special Luggage
If you’re traveling with non-standard or oversized baggage (such as strollers, umbrellas, sports equipment, musical instruments, etc.), you’ll need to collect these items separately. Oversized luggage can be retrieved at the designated oversized baggage counter within the baggage claim area. Look for clear signage or ask an airport employee for assistance if you’re uncertain where to go.
Connecting Flights and Baggage Transfer
If you’re transferring flights at the airport (for scheduled flights), your luggage is usually automatically forwarded to your connecting flight. In this case, you only collect your luggage upon arrival at your final destination. However, if your connecting flight departs the following day or if you booked separate flights, you’ll need to collect your baggage upon arrival and re-check it for your next flight segment.
Important Exception for Flights to the USA:
When traveling to the United States, immigration and customs checks occur at your first point of entry into the U.S. All passengers, including those connecting to another flight within the U.S., must collect their luggage, pass through immigration and customs, and then re-check the baggage for their subsequent flight.
Handling Damaged or Undelivered Luggage
In some cases, luggage may be damaged or fail to arrive at your destination. If you encounter such issues at Prague Airport, follow these steps:
- Immediately proceed to the baggage claims desk operated by the handling company responsible for your flight. You can find the relevant handling company indicated on the information screens next to your flight number.
- Handling company desks are conveniently located in the baggage claim areas of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
- A staff member will assist you in completing a formal report concerning your damaged or missing luggage, providing you with a reference number and contact details for future inquiries.
Typically, delayed luggage arrives on the next available flight and is delivered directly to your provided address. Delivery procedures may vary depending on your airline’s policy.
If further claims or compensation are necessary, you must directly contact your airline within seven days of your arrival.
Additional Tips for Smooth Luggage Retrieval:
- Clearly label your baggage with your contact information both outside and inside.
- Consider using distinctive luggage tags or colorful straps to quickly identify your luggage.
- Keep important documents and essential items such as medications, electronics, and valuables in your carry-on luggage.
- Take a photo of your checked luggage before departure; this can assist in the event of a damage claim.