In-flight theft: is it becoming more and more common, how can you prevent your valuables from being stolen in-flight and what should you do if you are robbed on a plane?

Is theft on the rise at airlines? The simplest answer is that we don’t know.

Airlines do not make their in-flight theft statistics public. However, recent events have put the issue in the news.

In In December 2023, a man was accused of stealing $23,000 (£18,200) cash from three fellow passengers on a flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Singapore while in October Police have arrested a man who was traveling from Taipei to Tokyo suspected of serial thefts while on the run.

Are these high-profile cases related to a general increase in the number of light-fingered passengers during flights?

Not necessarily, says Jonathan Frankham, General Manager UK at World Nomads Travel Insurance. However, they are a reminder that you should be careful with your belongings during a flight.

Jonathan said: ‘While we have not observed any discernible trend in claims submitted suggesting that in-flight baggage theft is historically widespread or on the rise in recent years, it is still critical to be vigilant and take steps to prevent to ensure the safety of assets and important matters. documents.’

Most people carry several valuable items with them when flying. In addition to a wallet and phone, it is not unusual to carry a passport, laptop, cash and perhaps a camera or other valuables. Jonathan warns that this makes it easy for thieves to be caught.

He said: ‘It’s a calculated gamble on this part [of the thieves], which takes advantage of travelers’ sense of security once they are comfortably seated on board. Yet it is precisely during these moments – the buzz during meals, the dimmed lights or those quick sprints to the toilet – that thieves can try their luck.’

In the case of the arrest in Tokyo, reports said the 51-year-old suspect would pretend to check his own luggage into the overhead bin, but would instead steal US dollars, euros and yen from the bags of fellow travelers. The cash was exchanged for lower denomination Cambodian riel or Indonesian rupiah to maintain the weight and size of the wallet.

It’s not just cash or valuables that could be targeted. Passports continue to fetch a significant price on the black market.

How do you ensure that you do not become a target of theft from an aircraft?

Pack smartly and keep your valuables with you

Do not leave valuables, such as passports, cash or phones, unattended

This is your first line of defense. Jonathan said: ‘Packing smart is crucial. Choose a sturdy backpack, preferably one that can be securely closed and marked with colorful zippers for easy identification. [If] the zipper is missing or has been tampered with, it is important to notify an employee immediately.

‘Store larger bags in overhead lockers so they are safe. If space is available, it can be helpful to place them across the aisle so you can easily see if someone is walking through who shouldn’t be.”

For valuables such as passports, cash and phones, Jonathan advised: ‘The best practice is to use a secure fanny pack or carry it in your pocket. Do not leave them unattended and always keep them in sight. This not only minimizes the risk of theft, but also ensures that insurance claims are not negatively affected by negligence.”

What should travelers do if they become victims of thefts on board?

Report the incident to the airline as soon as you notice anything missing, in accordance with the guidelines of the Montreal Convention.

Jonathan explained: ‘This international treaty requires airlines to provide compensation for lost or damaged baggage on international flights. Although the treaty position on stolen baggage is less explicit, it is crucial to notify the airline as soon as possible.

“Second, travelers must obtain all necessary documentation to support their case. This also includes requesting a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) from the airline. Additionally, it is vital to keep all related documents such as tickets, luggage tags and receipts for any emergency purchases as these form an essential part of any subsequent insurance claims.

‘It is important to also involve the local police. Reporting the theft to the police and obtaining a citation is a crucial step as it provides official documentation of the theft, which is often required for insurance claims.”

What should travelers do if they need to make an insurance claim?

Mealtimes, bedtimes or trips to the bathroom provide the perfect time for opportunistic thieves to strike

Once you’ve notified the airline and the police, Jonathan says it’s essential to thoroughly review your travel insurance policy. ‘Although it usually covers such incidents, it is essential to understand the limits and exclusions of the policy, and additional premiums may be required for high-value items,’ he added.

‘Next, collect all necessary evidence, including proof of ownership, age and value of the stolen items, which are crucial to the claims process.

‘It is also important that travelers assess their responsibility in the situation. Ensuring that valuables are safe and that luggage is not left unattended is crucial, as negligence can affect the viability of a claim.

‘If in doubt or have any questions, travelers should not hesitate to contact their insurer.’