Between 2017 and 2021, London Heathrow was the airport with the largest share of lost luggage claims in the UK, with 35.63 percent of unresolved claims. The airport handled 19.4 million passengers in 2021.

As of early 2026, Heathrow (LHR) has significantly improved its baggage reliability despite handling over 84 million passengers in 2025. Reports for the past year indicate a 98% baggage load rate, meaning only about 2% of bags were delayed or "lost" during transit. While this still accounts for a large number of bags due to the sheer volume of travelers, the airport has invested heavily in the "Next Generation Security" and automated sorting systems to reduce "misconnected" luggage, which is the primary cause of loss. In 2026, Heathrow has regained its status as one of Europe’s most punctual and operationally stable hubs. However, during peak periods like August or late December, the risk remains higher. Travelers are still advised to use digital trackers like AirTags and ensure their contact details are inside the bag, as the sheer scale of the 2026 record-breaking passenger numbers makes a 100% success rate physically impossible.