A viral TikTok video claiming that red luggage is loaded into the cargo compartment first due to its visibility in the aircraft hold has led to speculation among viewers. Some believe that red bags are easier to spot in the darkness of the hold and are less likely to be left behind. However, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines dismissed these claims as “nonsense,” stating that the color of the bag does not affect how it is loaded.
The International Air Transport Association confirmed that the original TikTok video was created to mislead viewers and provide false information. In reality, there is not enough time or space to sort baggage by color, and red bags are not given priority in the loading process. A Redditor claiming to be a ramp worker also debunked the theory, stating that loading bags based on color would not be a practical or efficient method in the airline industry.
While some passengers may believe that red bags are less likely to get lost, Simple Flying reported that red luggage can still be delayed as often as bags of other colors. According to a 2015 article by HuffPost, luggage is typically distributed in the cargo hold based on weight, rather than by color or the time it was checked in at the airport. Suitcases are organized into “cans” or boxes that are weighed and grouped together to balance the weight on wide-body aircraft.
Delta Airlines explained that on narrow-body planes, ramp workers use the “loose loading” method, where baggage is loaded in the order they are stored in the holding area. This process does not involve organizing bags by color or using cans, as seen on wide-body aircraft. While the order of luggage loading may differ based on the type of aircraft, the color of the bag does not play a role in determining how it is loaded or when it will arrive at baggage claim.
In conclusion, the belief that red luggage is loaded into the cargo compartment first based on its color is a misconception. Airlines typically distribute baggage based on weight and balance requirements to ensure safe and efficient loading. While some passengers may prefer red luggage for its visibility, the color of the bag does not influence how it is handled by airline staff. It is important for travelers to pack efficiently and label their bags clearly to minimize the risk of loss or delay during air travel.
