Travelers heading to Cuba have raised complaints regarding the handling of their luggage at Miami International Airport (MIA). Passengers who pre-wrap their suitcases at home in nylon to bypass the airport's service costs are reportedly having these protective coverings removed upon arrival at the airport.
Mario Vallejo, a journalist, shared on Facebook, "They’re forcing those who arrive with already 'wrapped' luggage to use the airport's wrapping services. The nylon coverings that people bring from home are being stripped off, forcing them to rewrap on-site. This practice is unlawful and is currently happening, especially on flights to Cuba," accompanied by a short video showing Cuban travelers having their luggage unwrapped before entering the airport.
Community Outcry and Allegations
Numerous individuals commented on Vallejo's post, with several confirming similar experiences at other airports, such as in Tampa. One woman recounted her encounter at Tampa Airport, stating that the airline Southwest justified the act as their policy. This practice is widely regarded as illegal, with allegations surfacing that some individuals pocket the money when wrapping is done at the airport.
Protective Measures and Legal Concerns
While wrapping luggage with companies specializing in this service is not mandatory, many online users recommend it for trips to Cuba. This advice stems from a perceived threat of customs agents on the island opening luggage and, in some cases, removing items. Commenters urged the community to report these incidents to Daniella Levine-Cava, the mayor of Miami-Dade County, to assess these airport practices and their legality.
A Cuban woman living in Germany shared a similar incident at Frankfurt Airport, adding to the international dimension of the issue. The general sentiment suggests that dismantling personal wraps is a tactic to force additional spending from passengers.
Cost Implications and Passenger Reactions
In Miami, the cost of having a suitcase wrapped at the airport varies by provider and baggage size. Official luggage protection company Secure Wrap charges $15 for regular wrapping and $22 for larger or oddly shaped items.
The term "wrapped baggage" refers to the practice of covering suitcases with a special plastic—typically polyethylene—to safeguard them during transit. This service, available at airports globally, involves layering the luggage with nylon to prevent damage and enhance security. It protects against scratches, unauthorized openings, theft, and adverse weather conditions like rain or humidity, which could harm the contents.
The adaptation of the term "rapeado" comes from the English word "wrap." As this article comes to a close, further details regarding these complaints at Miami Airport remain unavailable.