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How a Lost Suitcase Led to a Two-Year Legal Battle with Ryanair

Published March 14, 2026, 14:11
How a Lost Suitcase Led to a Two-Year Legal Battle with Ryanair

Rosie McGrain never imagined that losing her suitcase at Copenhagen Airport would turn into a 2.5-year legal marathon. Rosie, from Kilmarnock, Scotland, traveled to the Danish capital to participate in the Copenhagen Half Marathon. However, upon arrival, her suitcase was not on the baggage claim belt. After returning home, Rosie received a reference number and a form to record all lost items. The process took days, as many of the items lacked proof of purchase. Despite repeated efforts and numerous emails from her husband, Ryanair was slow to respond and closed the case on June 3, 2024. With the help of her husband, Chris, a retired court clerk, Rosie filed a fast-track claim in Edinburgh for disputes up to £5,000. Ryanair did not participate, and in July 2024, Rosie received a court decision for compensation of £4,425.37. However, Ryanair filed an appeal in October 2025, arguing that Rosie did not immediately report the loss upon arrival, and that some items, such as the iPad and headphones, should not have been in the suitcase. The case is scheduled to be heard on March 26, 2026, almost two years and six months after the flight.