DAF Form 136: Baggage Mishandled Report File (Download)

DAF Form 136: Baggage Mishandled Report File (Download) – If your baggage was lost, delayed, or damaged while traveling on Department of the Air Force (DAF) aircraft or official military transport, DAF Form 136 is the key document you need. This form, officially titled Baggage Mishandled Report File, helps service members, civilians, and authorized passengers document mishandled baggage for claims, tracking, and resolution through Air Force channels.

What Is DAF Form 136?

DAF Form 136 is the Department of the Air Force’s standardized form for reporting mishandled baggage incidents. It creates an official record when checked or accompanied baggage does not arrive with the passenger, arrives damaged, or is otherwise mishandled during air travel—particularly on military or contracted flights supporting DAF operations.

The form supports processes outlined in DAFI 24-605, Volume 2 (Passenger Movement), which covers mishandled baggage procedures for space-available (Space-A) travel and other official/passenger movements. It is referenced alongside related forms such as DAF Form 7506 and helps initiate lost and found baggage claims.

Important: This is an internal DAF form, distinct from civilian airline Property Irregularity Reports (PIRs) or DD Forms used in household goods moves. Use it specifically for DAF-managed passenger baggage issues.

When Should You Use DAF Form 136?

File DAF Form 136 promptly in these common scenarios:

  • Your bag did not arrive on the same flight (delayed baggage)
  • Baggage was lost or never recovered
  • Checked baggage arrived damaged
  • Mishandled baggage during Space-A travel, official TDY, PCS, or other DAF air movements
  • Contents are missing or damaged in connection with extensive baggage issues

Best practice: Report the issue immediately at the destination’s passenger terminal or baggage service counter before leaving the airfield. Quick reporting improves recovery chances and strengthens any claim.

How to Obtain and Complete DAF Form 136?

  1. Download the Official Form
    Get the current fillable PDF directly from the Air Force e-Publishing site:
    DAF Form 136 PDF
  2. Key Information Typically Required (based on standard mishandled baggage reporting and DAFI 24-605 guidance):
    • Passenger’s full name, rank/grade, DoD ID, contact information, and unit
    • Flight details: flight number, date, origin, destination
    • Baggage tag numbers, number of pieces, and descriptions (color, size, make)
    • Description of the mishandling (delayed, lost, damaged, pilfered)
    • Inventory of contents if damage or loss is claimed
    • Supporting documents: boarding pass, baggage claim tags, photos of damage, and any airline or terminal reports

    Attach copies of relevant documents such as the boarding pass or DAF Form 7506 when required. If tags or receipts are unavailable, note cross-references or explanations.

  3. Submission Process
    • Submit at the arrival passenger terminal’s baggage service or lost and found section.
    • The terminal or Baggage Service Center (BSC) will often initiate or assist with the form.
    • Keep the original signed copy and obtain a case number or receipt for follow-up.
    • For Space-A or military charter issues, the local terminal personnel coordinate with the Baggage Service Center to trace and resolve the case.

What Happens After You File DAF Form 136?

  • Tracing & Recovery: Lost and found or baggage service personnel contact other stations and the Baggage Service Center to locate your property. You may receive updates or a release form once the bag is found.
  • Claims Process: If the bag remains lost or is damaged beyond repair, the form supports valuation and potential compensation through DAF channels (subject to applicable regulations and liability limits).
  • Documentation: Retain copies for your records. The form helps create an audit trail for any further claims or investigations.

Note for Space-A Travelers: Mishandled baggage during Space-A travel follows specific procedures in DAFI 24-605. You may need to provide additional details about your travel authorization.

Tips for a Successful Baggage Mishandled Report

  • Act Fast: File before leaving the terminal. Most airlines and military terminals have time limits for initial reports.
  • Document Everything: Take clear photos of damaged bags/tags and keep all receipts for replacement items if you need to make interim purchases.
  • Be Detailed: Accurate descriptions and tag numbers speed up tracing.
  • Follow Up: Note any case or reference number provided and check back with the terminal or your unit’s passenger service if you don’t hear updates.
  • Civilian Flights vs. Military: For commercial airline legs, also file a PIR with the airline. DAF Form 136 covers the military-managed portions.
  • DAFI 24-605, Volume 2 – Passenger Movement (covers mishandled baggage procedures)
  • Air Force e-Publishing (e-publishing.af.mil) for the latest forms and instructions
  • Local Passenger Terminal or Traffic Management Office (TMO) at your installation
  • For household goods or PCS moves, use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) instead

Download DAF Form 136 Here:
Official DAF Form 136 – Baggage Mishandled Report File

Stay Prepared for Smooth Travel

Mishandled baggage can disrupt TDY, PCS, or leisure travel, but proper documentation with DAF Form 136 ensures your issue is officially recorded and addressed through the correct DAF channels. Always check with your local airfield passenger services for the most current procedures, as policies can be updated.

For questions specific to your situation, contact your installation’s Passenger Terminal, Baggage Service Center, or servicing Military Personnel Section (MPS).

This guide is for informational purposes and based on publicly available Department of the Air Force publications as of 2026. Always refer to the official form instructions and current DAFI 24-605 for authoritative guidance. Procedures may vary by location and mission.