[Resolved]  Etihad Airways — Damaged Baggage: Etihad Airlines

Address:

Mumbai City, Maharashtra

Hi,
I am sharing harrowing experience with Etihad Airways. I traveled by Etihad Airways from London Heathrow Airport to Mumbai via Abu Dhabi on 16th October 2011 (London to Abu Dhabi flight EY 012, Abu Dhabi to Mumbai flight EY 206). On arrival at Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport I found my checked in baggage damaged (Giordano 32'' Travel Gear). I reported to the attending staff immediately and their manager took note of the baggage and all the details (I have a copy of Damaged Baggage Report filled by on duty manager)
Couple of days later an agent collected the damage bag from my residence. Next day I got a response from Etihad baggage handling department (Santosh Patel, [protected]@etihad.ae) and they mentioned that the baggae is beyond repair and none of their service agent can repair it. They asked for the original bill to get the claim. However, since the bag was purchased in 2009 I dint have any bill but have the warranty card. I contacted Lifestyle stores (from where Bag was purchased) and they say that warranty card with stamp and signature is a valid proof of sale.
My baggage is damaged by Etihad airlines and instead of giving any compensation they have caused big trouble. I have to visit lifestyle store several time to collect a duplicate receipt or any info. I have to mail Etihad Airways so many times to get a reply. I read several such instances on internet where passengers suffered by Etihad. I want to take this complaint forward to Consumer Court to prevent such incidences by Etihad Airways and its staff.
Please help me with the procedure and advice to proceed.

Thanks & Regards,
Puneet Parakh