Technical baggage failure at Copenhagen Airport leaves TUI passengers without luggage in Phuket

A technical malfunction in Copenhagen Airport’s baggage handling system has caused significant disruption for passengers, including a TUI flight to Phuket on Saturday where around 60 checked bags were left behind in Denmark. Among the affected travellers were Swedish passengers, some of whom reported long queues and hours of waiting at Phuket Airport to register missing luggage.

Copenhagen Airport (CPH) confirmed it is currently experiencing technical problems with its automated baggage sorting system, forcing luggage to be handled manually. As a result, some checked baggage may not travel on the same flight as passengers and is being forwarded on later services. The airport has advised travellers to pack essential items, such as medication, in hand luggage and apologised for the inconvenience, stating that teams are working intensively to restore normal operations.

TUI acknowledged the issue, describing it as a “technical error,” and said the delayed luggage would be forwarded to Phuket as soon as possible. The tour operator expressed regret for the situation and confirmed it is actively working to reunite passengers with their belongings. Affected travellers have reportedly had to purchase basic necessities such as clothing and toiletries, with costs of around SEK 250 per person, and have been advised to contact their travel insurance providers regarding compensation.

While CPH emphasised that baggage staff are doing everything possible to minimise the impact, the incident highlights how the ongoing system issues at the airport can have direct consequences for long-haul travellers, particularly on outbound flights outside the Schengen area.