p2pnet news view | Freedom:- Air Canada has been getting away with murder for years — expensive, but shoddy, service, delayed flights …

… battered bags.

And then, “One young man takes on Air Canada,” emails Marc.

Following complaints from Gabor Lukacs, 26, an assistant professor at the University of Manitoba, the Canadian Transport Agency (CTA) ruled Air Canada’s policy that it’s not responsible for delayed or damaged baggage violates both international conventions and Canadian law, and must be changed within 90 days, says the Montreal Gazette.

Lukacs was on his way home from abroad last fall when he saw a sign in which Air Canada absolved itself from responsibility for anything and everything, to wit »»»

… (Air Canada) will not accept a claim for: scratches, nicks, missing straps, zipper damage, scuffs, dents, soiling, damage resulting from over packing, damage to wheels, feet, extending handles.

“It just bothered me,” the story has Lukacs saying.

When the new ruling is implemented, “Air Canada passengers will be able to demand compensation for damaged luggage or for luggage that didn’t arrive when they did,” it says, quoting Lukacs as stating:

“I see this (as) the greatest achievement. I am very glad that I was able to do something that makes a difference for all Canadians.”

As Marc said, “It only takes one to make a change for all.”

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Montreal Gazette – Air Canada liable for lost, damaged luggage, May 15, 2009