I knew last night the laptop was trashed.
This morning I removed my featherweight to find it in pieces.
The motor is broken off. The tray is broken off. I am so disgusted.
I don't know where to start with the claims process and in the back of my mind I know that nothing will come of trying to get compensation on the contents of my carryon that they said needed to be checked plane side.
And how hard did they chuck this thing?!????
Whhhaaaaa!!!
Anyone know of a welder who can put put me back together again?
I am so sorry, horrible! Hope you are successful with your claim.
ReplyDeleteOh, Bonnie, I am so sorry this happened to you. How awful. Some luggage handler has some real anger issues.
ReplyDeleteBonnie, I'm horrified! I think that they should be totally responsible for replacing or fixing what they broke. Be sure to make the airline pay for their employee's carelessness. This really makes me so sad to see your beautiful pink machine so hurt.
ReplyDeleteOMG - sorry so see that happen Bonnie, no words for it - you must have been so upset - your computer and the machine!
ReplyDeleteKaren
I have never let them put a laptop or sewing machine in the body of the plane. Those baggage handlers are rough with stuff (having watched them load many, many times). I figure the worst they can do to my clothing is squash it so if I am checking a bag it is always my suitcase. I would be beside myself if they broke my sewing machine!
ReplyDeleteThese pictures are really sad. There is just no excuse for anyone handling bags this roughly.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the claims process.
And on the way to Sisters!!! They should know better. Don't mess with quilters! Don't let this spoil your visit. I'm looking forward to seeing this show vicariously through you :)
ReplyDeleteI am horrified! Your beautiful magenta machine....oh, no!!!! Of course you will file a claim and make them pay. Is your machine a restored antique? That baby is worth some money, honey.....Those handlers should know that anything that was planned to be a carryon should get extra loving care, and the airline should pay for not making that clear to their employees.
ReplyDeleteSo, there!
That is incredibly sad. I would be very, very upset. So sorry this happened to you.
ReplyDeleteOh my word! How awful! I can't believe they were so careless! No excuses! They need to pay big time for all your damage...machine and computer. Outrageous!
ReplyDeleteOMGish, I'd be pitching a fit.... I'd be taking even more pictures to support your claim... get pics of the bag, and your sewing machine from every angel...as well as your computer.
ReplyDeleteThen price out replacements for everything they destroyed. This is beyond crazy. I don't even want to think about the force that would have been applied to do that sort of damage. I mean really did they drop it/throw it from the plane?
The airline should totally pay!
Good luck
Oh no, this really sucks! I was make them pay! The laptop was bad enough, but your beautiful pink Featherweight. How dare they!!! I would be screaming, jumping up and down mad!!
ReplyDeleteSo sorry that you have to deal with all of this, and I hope you get resolution and satisfaction to the problem.
This is an abomination!!!! I hope you can really STICK it to the airlines...............Sooooooooooo un-necessary.
ReplyDeleteYou know what... stomp up and down if you have to! You are a paying coustomer!! You have given these airlines LOTS o business!! You have checked things before, right, and not had them TRASH your belongings! That is just unacceptable!! Both your computer and your machine!! Make them listen to you!!! You and your belongings are worth it!! Just saying!
ReplyDeletePlus, I think I would keep those pics saved on my phone and the next time they tell you you have to check your stuff you show them the pics and ask if they will give you in writing that that will not happen again! Might make them think twice!!
WOW!! I think abomination truly is the only word for this!! I would be heart broken if that were my Featherweight Baby. I am glad you are with loved ones who can help you rise above these 2 damaged machines and still laugh! Enjoy Sisters, that will restore your soul for sure.
DeleteOh! This is horrible! I teared up! There is never an excuse to treat other peoples belongings in such a thoughtless way. I would definitely put in a claim. Every squeaky wheel helps right the wrongs!
ReplyDeleteHow aweful! :'( So not cool...shame on the airline for being so careless. >:( I hope you are able to get your beautiful hot pink featherweight fixed. I'd be crying too! :(
ReplyDeleteThis positively makes my heart break. Hope they treat you fairly. I'm wondering why in the world they wouldn't let it be a carry on. Do they think you were going to sew someone to death or fling it at them? Dang this stinks. I think Josie had a good idea about saving the pictures on the phone since you fly so much. It couldn't hurt.
ReplyDeleteThis is so not acceptable! There is no excuse for this kind of treatment of personal items. Definitely file claims and also let them know you will not be flying their airline again. I would also let it be known that you travel frequently and have thousands of faithful followers who know the value of machines who will also not be using their services. I know this may not be possible, but I believe in word of mouth as one of the best ways to learn about services, and I also believe these companies have screwed with the public long enough!!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Josie! and they charge you for everything these days, so we all know with the money it costs to fly and pay baggage costs they can well replace these things....I would be sick! Sweet talk someone at Sisters to load you a machine, you can't be 2 weeks without any sewing!!!!! And where do you go next! Too bad Randy didn't know and could bring you one...Get a lawyer and add in some pain and suffering cause we all know you are having some. We will testify! Jan
ReplyDeleteWell Bonnie, you know you will have several thousand women who will all testify to the wonderful machine it was before your trip.
ReplyDeleteWe just had UPS bring us a box of china and even the driver could tell that the whole box was in tiny pieces. So he turned right around and took the box back with him.
I cannot understand how they managed to destroy the FW. It is like they deliberately swung it around and bashed it into things. They are sturdy little things.
Bonnie, I'm so sorry this happened. I can't imagine how you must feel. My daughter lost an ipod and a kindle on a plane and the airlines did indeed replace them. If they told you you had to check them and you intended to carry them on, they are responsible. I would call them and get whatever forms you need to fill out. They can't do anything if they don't know.
ReplyDeleteThat's just wrong. Wow! That featherweight machine when thru a beating. Hope that airline do something about.
ReplyDeleteEvery time they tell me, I must check the carry on bag that DOES fit the requirements, and it has my sewing machine in it, I stand firm and tell them no, it's a sewing machine. One time the attendandt actually put it in with the pilot! I'm so sorry they did this! It's so new you still have your bill of sale, right? Make em pay, and get another.
ReplyDeleteWhat airline? If you don't get satisfaction, make sure they know you have a popular blog and have posted your experience. The laptop was one thing, but the Featherweight is absolutely horrible.
ReplyDeleteExactly what I was thinking Ruthann!!
DeleteI'm incensed. Start and don't STOP till you have them take care of this situation TOTALLY. Not acceptable. A friend SAW her Bernina tossed that way and totally messed up and in MY MIND right then I thought (for myself) never checking in that way
ReplyDeleteEVER! They did the same thing to my rolling cart when I was in Europe a few years ago. My daughter and I renamed the case "Stumpy" because they knocked off the underparts (some) and the thing could never sit up on its own ever again. Did the lean. I know their job is the same old/same old but it's NO EXCUSE. So sorry about the magenta FW and the laptop..Blather!!!!
You have flown so much with these items, and nothing has happened in the past. There has to be some recourse. Make a youtube video like that guy with the guitar and United Airlines.... they finally broke down and made good on smashing his guitar.
ReplyDeleteHope things work out. Hugs!
Your magenta, ghost-flamed featherweight! That's a one of a kind machine! It's not like you can walk into ANY store ANYWHERE and replace it! I would be devastated and furious. Your laptop can be replaced but not your featherweight! Please keep us posted on the resolution to this situation, and know that there are lots of us feeling your pain!
ReplyDeleteYes, I had to have mine welded for the same boo-boo. I took mine to a friend's tool and die shop. The first weld didn't "take" and came off, the second DID IT! Every other place said it couldn't be done...POO! It has held over 3 years EVERY day use! It has held WELL. Unfortunately, welding takes the lovely paint off. Mine was a celery white so touch up with white appliance paint was not quite perfect, but okay. Since yours is newer car paint, maybe you can find the same in touch up paint. The touch up came REAL close. I am currently restoring a featherweight in metallic magenta myself...I HOPE! LOL, my son is helping...
ReplyDeleteThat's so awful. And they want to charge us for this "service?" I hope the claim process goes smoothly.
ReplyDeleteSounds like you are having a mechanical meltdown on this trip!! Maybe the cosmos is telling you to disconnect - from the technology world (laptop) and the late night sewing in your room alone (featherweight) and get out and enjoy sights and sounds and people more. And then go back to NC refreshed, relaxed and ready to take on the rest of the world - the good, the bad and the ugly!!!
ReplyDeletethats crazy !!!, I dont know that it can be welded but years ago my mechanic dad used a 2 part glue named JB WelD. it hled alot of metal items together that we didint expect.
ReplyDeletegood luck
I'm so sorry, your magenta queen - that's terrible. Hope you find somebody who is able to fix your baby
ReplyDeletebig hugs
Brigitte
They had to roll over that bag with a steam roller....your FW has been every where with no damage. Grit your teeth and fight them.
ReplyDeleteOh, its more painful that having your teeth pulled. The power of duck tape until you find a good welder.
ReplyDeleteDo you have a twitter account or a Facebook account? I would mention the airline and the damage on both .... some companies monitor social media sites and will respond to prevent spread of negative reviews. You might also check to see if the airline has a Facebook or Twitter account and mention it on those sites as well. The use of YouTube can also be effective, as demonstrated by the fellow with the guitar damage on United Airlines. I would definitely pursue the claims process as well, with pictures included. And don't take no for an answer - it is often the default statement from the offending company. You have a strong case since both the laptop and sewing machine were damaged.
ReplyDeleteOH NO!!! That's horrible! I hope you are able to get some money from the claims process to get your baby fixed!
ReplyDeleteWatched our cases being loaded onto a plane the other day & it wasn't a pretty sight. Feel for you, Bonnie.
ReplyDeleteBonnie, I'm so sorry this happened. As some one who works customer service for Best Buy I am going to give you a few things to do. First, take pictures of both the laptop and sewing machine. When you contact the airlines ask for a supervisor, give them your frequent flyer number as they will look it up and verify that you are a valued customer. When you report the damage make sure they understand that the sewing machine is an antique and be sure to have the value of it set before you call. Go online and get the highest price you can find for a replacement. If they argue get an appraisal. Give them the replacement value of the lap top also, not the purchase price. Also make sure they understand that you are a quilting teacher and the machine and laptop is how you make your living.
ReplyDeleteIf you have the accidental damage service plan at Best Buy they will most likely want to send it off for repair. If they can't fix it they will replace it under the service plan but this can take two to three weeks. If they want to send it off for repair they will not tell you but you can buy a replacement just to get you thru and return it before the 30 day exchange is up. I have customers that do that all the time. If you don't have the accidental damage plan they will not repair or replace it unless you want to pay for it. If this is the case it will cost more to fix than to buy a new one. Either way be sure and get the accidental service plan on the new one.
Hope this helps.
P.S. Never take "NO' from someone who does not have the power to say "YES".
DeleteCrickets, the part about talking to a supervisor works like a champ. I had a hospital bill that was almost $600 that I wanted to pay. I know the hospital offers a discount if you pay in full so I called. The first person offered me a small discount, knowing I could do better I asked for the supervisor. The supervisor stuck to the same song and dance so I told her that I had $450 earmarked for this bill - guess what, they settled for that amount - paid in full! It never hurts to ask and to push a little.
DeleteBonnie,
DeleteAs a supervisor in a large government agency, I can offer an "affirmative" to this post as well as the information posted below by others: document, collect info on repair or replacement (full value), follow all of their rules to a "T" (so they're not able to dismiss on a technicality), this is the way you make your living...You're with the barrister! I'm sure she's already given you excellent advice.
As an aside, my husband spent some time as a "ramp rat" for a major domestic airline. They do toss the luggage on and off the carts to and from the planes - not because they're careless - although some are - but because they have a limited amount of time to unload and load in order to turn the plane around on time. Also, they have to balance the weight within each cargo hold. There's a lot more involved than we tend to think about.
Having said that, I would expect them to handle GATE CHECKED items with more care.
Be persistent in your claim. Keep going up the food chain, and advise them you'll be posting updates on your WIDELY read blog, as we all want to know. Give them your blogh address so they can follow along.
Sorry. My phone wouldn't allow me to continue...I wish I still lived in Oregon. I'd bring you a machine to use.
DeleteTry to enjoy your time there. It's not the way you planned your trip...I am of the mindset, however, that everything happens for a reason. Perhaps this is for the airline to learn from regarding gate checked electronics and fragile items.
Hang in there.
Sandi
Sandhill57@sbcglobal.net
didn't they realize this was an icon of the internet? A machine that hundeds of women all over the world knew and loved and lusted over.. and a computer that kept us all in touch with your busy life. For shame at their carelessness. Forward your blog to those responsable and those responsable for them.
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness Bonnie, Nooooooo! I'm so sorry this has happened to you, and I hope you are properly compensated. I saw my valet baggage thrown from the plane and fall from the little conveyor while I was standing next to the aircraft waiting for it, and one of my checked in bags got such a beating that it's a miracle anything survivied. Something has to change!
ReplyDelete*hugs*
Tazzie
:-)
i agree. absolutely fight this to the hilt. your hubby is a lawyer, right? let them know that and see how fast they offer everything under the sun in terms of compensation.
ReplyDeleteI think the collective quilt community's blood pressure just went up considerably. Also tell them this is how you make your living.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry about that Bonnie! I am a flight attendant, and have often wondered how you transport your sewing machine? What kind of case do you use for air travel? I have seen my fair share of demolished items due to lack of care by ground personnel. I truly hope you are able to repair your featherweight! photokevin@centurytel.net
ReplyDeleteThat really sucks!
ReplyDeleteWas that damage done on your way to Redmond? I NEVER put any bags on the cart planeside! Now I never will even if I'm tempted.
I am so sorry. I would still be at the airport stomping my feet like a madwoman.....Money doesnt' go on trees! but I would make sure I got my share from the airlines. Enjoy your trip in spite of.
ReplyDeleteJessica
Oh,Bonnie. This just makes me sick. I feel so badly for you. I can't imagine what this must be like. I hope that the airline takes care of you on this. That machine was one of a kind!
ReplyDeleteMy husband is a backyard welder.... his own car projects. I showed him your pictures and he said the damage looked weldable (is that a word :-P) but that you would need a skilled welder, not a hobbyist like him. I'll keep good thoughts for you and your machine through the claims process.... sheesh, like you needed something else to do.
ReplyDeleteDid any of your friends bring a spare machine to your retreat? Hoping you have a way to stitch out some of your frustrations.
PS. My DH suggested you try a shop that specializes in hot rod cars. They're usually the ones who are the most skilled at welding aluminum. (yes...it is weldable). If any flames need touch up, they might help with that too. ;-)
DeleteDitto what Karen Said! AND OMG!
DeleteOh, no! Unfortunately, the featherweight is aluminum. I don't think it can be welded. The motor housing broke on my white one and all I needed to replace was the motor. But, yours is broken at the machine body and I don't think that can be fixed. I feel as sorry for the ordeal you'll have to go through to get good customer service as I do about the broken items. Best of luck and know that a whole bunch of quilters are sending you good wishes. Lane
ReplyDeleteOMG! My heart is broken seeing that beautiful machine in pieces. Money may replace the physical damage but your emotional damage will take a long time to heal. They should compensate for that too. (just saying)
ReplyDeleteJudy in Pa.
luzzi2@ptd.net
I am soooo sorry! What a disappointment. I was so frustrated once when I had to check my featherweight. They didn't care that it was an antique and expensive. I was fortunate and prayers were answered and it arrived safely. My son recently had to check his bag and his laptop screen cracked. Even though it was in a case inside his bag. US Air compensation...$100 voucher for a future flight that he wasn't ever able to use. Hope you can find someone to put your Humpty Dumpty back together again!
ReplyDelete$100 voucher for a future flight - as if you would EVER want to fly with them again!! Just sayin' - ;))
DeleteDON"T replace or repair ANYTHING until the claims process is started OR you will NOT get your money back!!!!! I found this out first hand.
ReplyDeleteWhat a sad post. Best of luck getting it sorted!
ReplyDeleteSadly the other option was that they would not let you board the plane with your bag. Remember when flying use to be about the customer and not the airline? Not the TSA!
ReplyDeleteI think I would retire this machine, try to get what I could for her and go back to one of the other feather weights.
So sorry for your loss Bonnie, we all know how you love your machines.
Happy Sewing on your retreat
I'm speechless... Big {{{{hugs}}}}} to you Bonnie!
ReplyDeleteP.S. I've had damage happen to my luggage and the airlines were very good about handling my claim - that was years and years and years ago - yeesh!
Noooooo!!!! Not the magenta beauty!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteAs a Complaints Officer in a previous life, I agree with Crickets Corner. The more calm, rational and determinedly angry you are the more likely you are to be heard. Clearly set out the outcome you require & make them provide it.
If this does not work, I say go the You Tube option & use the power of your blog.
Good luck.
Lush
May the quilters be with you!!
Bonnie, I am heartbroken for you. I hope that this doesn't spoil your visit to Sisters
ReplyDeletea terrible, heartbreaking lesson for the rest of us bonnie
ReplyDeleteOh Bonnie I'm so sorry this has happened. Sandi
ReplyDeleteOMG - I'd be sick.
ReplyDeleteNo fair! They don't know who they are messing with, do they! What a bummer! I've never traveled with a sewing machine other than in my car where I could control where it was at all times. This breaks my quilter's heart. So much worse than the invasion of the TSA tags.
ReplyDeleteOMG, how devasting for you. You MUST put in a claim and I would also write to the airline and/or the airport where the baggage handlers work. I'm pretty sure that many people turn a blind eye and say 'Oh well, I'll just have to make a claim'. But this is not the point, the point is these people should have more respect for other's possessions and if we put our heads in the sand and do nothing, then the consequences are they will continue to treat our baggage the same way.
ReplyDeleteBonnie...I am so sorry.....Crickets corner is correct.....get all your ducks all lined up in a row including the paint job cost .......and go for it. This is a lesson for me also I was thinking about taking my feather weight on a trip.....it will be a carry on.....again my heart breaks for you...
ReplyDeleteOh that's horrible! There is a guy here in Washington who restores featherweights and gives classes on their care and maintenance. Perhaps he could help you out.....Dave McCallum 360.757.4777
ReplyDeleteWww.featherweight221.com
May sound crazy but check with a large automotive body repair shop...if they will not do it they may know of a reputable welder nearby. Defiantly make sure the airline knows this was a "professional tool" that had been "customized." Stress how this impacted you ability to do the work you had flown on their airline to do.
ReplyDeleteMy husband tells me you must find a professional MICRO welder to repair your machine..a regular welder would burn away the entire machine..good luck, and so sad for your misfortune.. Chris, Augusta GA
ReplyDeleteOh Bonnie...
ReplyDeletewhen I opened your website to check for some news about your laptop and then read the headline I already thought that it would be bad... but I did not expect it to be that bad.
I just sat here in front of my computer with my mouth wide open, couldn't say anything at all...
I really hope that you will be able to find someone who can fix this.
What the heck to they think when they are handling luggage??
Check out the blog..The Perfect Stitch. I think he is in Indiana, but the work I see him do with antique sewing machines is amazing.
ReplyDeleteoh man, that hurts! I sure feel your pain. Your FW was a trusty sidekick to you. I hope you can find the right person to help you.
ReplyDeleteThat is so sad, I'm so sorry for you! I know how much you love that very special one-of-a-kind machine. I do hope you have a wonderful time on your trip in spite of this. Best of luck to you on trying to get it resolved!
ReplyDeleteOh baby I'm so sorry. My son does weld for a living. That machine is cast and as so is not repairable at that level of damage. Remember he welds using cost versus benefit ratio. Maybe some one can repair it but it will need a new paint job. How do you feel about a new old feather weight?
ReplyDeletethis is terrible! I agree with others that you need to make them accountable!
ReplyDeleteSo sorry about your beautiful machine. I am sure it is not about the money, but the memories and that megenta color. We quilters stand behind you. No reason for such damage. Just got back from San Diego and the TSA picked my bag to inspect. Then didn't pack it like I did and my rulers and machine platform were broken in half.
ReplyDeleteHoly crap! That is unbelievable! So glad you have lots of 'before' photos of it to prove it was in pristine condition before they got their gorilla hands on it! And I can't believe they wouldn't let you take on your laptop! I mean really, how much space does that take up!
ReplyDeleteI learned a long time ago, never put anything valuable in your checked luggage. Airlines will not pay for broken computers.
ReplyDeleteOh those pictures just broke my heart. I'll remember to tell them I'll sit on my machine case rather than do a plane side check in. They busted your laptop and your featherweight! Go gettum girl!
ReplyDeleteIf you complain and get no results from the airline, I would look into you home owners insurance. I bet they might cover it...or at least fight the airline for you.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThat just made me sick at my stomach
ReplyDeleteBonnie I don't know if you'll read down this far, but I just wanted to give you a little hope. Last December I flew to Arizona and the airline trashed my luggage. I had to take the damaged items in to the airport to show them the damage (you have a limited amount of time to do it, so don't put it off), and fill out a couple of not too difficult forms. They had me take it to a shop that did a beautiful repair within two weeks and I didn't have to pay a dime.
ReplyDeleteAirlines have to deal with this kind of thing all the time, and my experience was that they were more than willing to make good on the damage done. I know it might not be as easy to replace your unique machine, but before you stomp and scream as has been suggested, try asking them nicely. It worked for me, and I think you get more flies with honey than with vinegar.
Good luck to you.
My heart stopped when I saw the pictures. Staying calm will get you more help. As a customer service rep., I'm always willing to talk and help someone that talks, not yells. Goodluck.
ReplyDeleteUnbelievable! To think you planned on carrying it on board and they MADE you check it at plane side. That is just so unacceptable. If they don't compensate you willingly, I'd let them know it won't be the wrath of God but the wrath of the quilting world, fans, fellow teachers, fellow quilters raining down on them. So sorry Bonnie that your prized and useful possessions got abused so badly. Shame on them.
ReplyDeleteStella
Oh My Word! I would be beside myself with fury. If you paid for your flight with a credit card you might check into seeing what kind of insurance they have. That just makes my heart hurt. =(
ReplyDeleteOh Bonnie -- I can't believe it!! I agree with those who say, keep pushing keep pushing. Outline exactly what you want - you make the decision of what will satisfy you in settling the claim. I personally would think a whole new machine and whole new laptop - how could you ever be certain of quality/reliability if it's just repaired? Plus, seeing welding on your magenta beauty would always be a reminder of the damage. Full replacement is what I would aim for. Bonnie, we are all heart broken for you...
ReplyDeleteI just can't believe they could break it like that unless they ran over it with the plane! If it was a carry on, did they take it away from you and then put it in the luggage dept under the plane? You might try Desk Dave's Featherweight Factory or Greg at Kessew. I sure would have somebody's head over this one. Why wouldn't they let you carry it on?
ReplyDeleteOH MY WORD, that makes me sick to my stomach! How on earth?! I agree, check with your credit card company about any insurance etc.
ReplyDeleteBonnie make sure to keep 'a paper trail'... who you talk with and when etc. What a terrible thing to do to someone's luggage.
HUGS
JulieinTN
Some one should warn the airline. You have alot of friends! All Featherweight Lovers are highly distressed by these photos. So sorry, Bonnie
ReplyDeleteMy heart is broken!!! I love that little machine! Huggies!!!! I'm so sorry for you!
ReplyDeleteOh, no!! Not Pinky!!! Hope you get satisfaction with your claim. Keep notes on all the correspondence. Good Luck.
ReplyDeleteThat is horrible! Which airlines in the guilty airlines? Want to put them on the never fly list.
ReplyDeleteOH NO! NOT BARBIE!! Those Bastards!!
ReplyDeleteDear Bonnie I'm so sorry about. BARBIE & your laptop.Sending you hugs & prayers.
ReplyDeleteOhhh..that just makes me sick to my stomach....
ReplyDeleteOh NO!!!! If you don't find anyone around your home turf please let me know. I can find someone in Houston, there are lots of great welders working around the oilfield fabrication shops in West Houston. Barbie can get a mechanical version of a nip & tuck :) tracydvr@comcast.net
ReplyDeleteBonnie you definitely need to file a major claim. You also need to call and talk to the airline president or someone high up the food chain as this is totally wrong.
ReplyDeleteWhenever they tell me I have to check my bag at the gate I take out my meds and my laptop, and other important things. I always throw in a little tote bag to put those things in as I refuse to check them. Once when I was taking things out to carry on and had multiple things to carry they decided I could go ahead and take my rolling bag on and put it in the first class coat closet.
They owe you big time!!!!
Heartbroken for you and what everyone else has said. And as tracker of numbers ( ;-)) I am way impressed with how many of your devout followers have commented here!
ReplyDeleteCynthia of the greater metro Portland area but currently in Las Vegas (hot hot hot!)
I was sick of my stomach when I saw this. I can't believe that they insisted that you gate check it and then trashed it. You need to let us know what airline it was- I'm sure a lot of us frequent flyers will be happy to boycott them. Bad enough the laptop was trashed but your beautiful machine. UGH. I pray you get a decent customer service rep to help you thru the claims process! Joy in AK
ReplyDeleteOh Bonnie, I am so sorry. That kind of carelessness is inexcusable. My "Sally Ann" sends her condolences.
ReplyDeleteWe are all here for you! Sounds like you have been given some great advice, so all that is left for me to do is hold your hand and cry with you, so that is what I am doing. :'(
ReplyDeleteOh Bonnie. this is so, so, sad. I am sorry.
ReplyDeleteOh Bonnie. this is so, so, sad. I am sorry.
ReplyDeleteJust shows you how much care they take with our luggage. I'm going to go and get a hard side suitcase. They always take mine when I am boarding and its a very small suitcase. This is just awful what they did to your sewing machine and computer.
ReplyDeleteOh no.... and just after our Guild meeting with the Featherweight's. I live in Winston. I know a welder; he works on machinery for a fiberoptic cable company. Let me know if you want me to ask him if he can/would look at your machine. So sorry, I'd be heartbroken and bit miffed.
ReplyDeletealong with all the rest i am outraged at the damage done to this beautiful machine.aluminum can be welded. I have a friend who used to weld for piper airplanes. He can weld two cola cans together and you will not find the join. He fixes all kind of things with his welder.Welding is an art from just like quilting.Joaniegirl, Lakeland FL
ReplyDeleteI am just sick for you! I was mad when I heard about the computer but then I saw the pictures of your sewing machine now I am totally sick. I hope that you can find someone to help you fix it.
ReplyDeleteMy daughter wenjt to Mexico in Marh for a wedding in her husband's famikly. She was flying with her year-old daughter. Not only did they give her the wrong ticket when changed planes in Chicago, they lost her luggage. She arrived in Guadalajara with no luggage other than her carry-on. The suitcase was delivered to her hotel the next day, but virtually everything was stolen from inside: diapers, baby clothes, baby toiletries, her clothes for the weddding. Cost her a small fortune to estock. Of course she was also 3 months pregnant and somewhat hormonal. Never did get compensated for her loss. That was United Airlines. These airlines ae allowed to get away with far too much!
ReplyDeleteOMG, NOOOOO!!! Not your beautiful Pink Machine!! I am just sick over this! I feel like this has happened to me....I hope you get them good! Don't give up. We're all behind you on this! Just tell us the airlines, and we'll NEVER fly them again!
ReplyDeleteThere is no since in the sewing machine or computer to be in this state. I hope you go after the airlines but good. They should replace them both for you and also compensate you for your misery of them doing this to your equipment that keeps you a job in these economic times. I would tell them I WOULD NEVER EVER FLY with them again.
ReplyDeleteBonnie, I met the guy that sold that machine to you at a quilt show a few months ago. I have his business card somewhere if you don't have his contact information. I had a conversation with him about your machine. I believe his wife reads your blog...maybe you can get in touch with him regarding the repair or at least to help back up the documentation of its worth!
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to read this. My heart breaks for you. I hope someone can repair the FW for you😓
DeleteOH, Bonnie! I would be heartsick! I have envied your precious featherweight ever since I first saw her. Bless your heart! I hope they do pay for a new one for you. How awful!
ReplyDeleteOh Bonnie... It's been said many times already, but I feel sick for you! I too would go after the airlines for full value of a fully customized Featherweight. Those things aren't cheap! I have been off the grid for several days and the first electronic thing I did was check your blog only to see your beautiful featherweight in pieces!
ReplyDeleteTake lots of pictures if you haven't already and good luck...
Paul
Oh no! FYI - my husband is a welder and I showed him the photos. He said it could be welded, but it won't be pretty. You would have to find someone who is trained to weld aluminum - and even then he would have to leave a large "bead" along the weld lines. I hate to say it, but it would probably cost more to repair than to buy another one and have it painted. This is just so sad. I am a FW collector myself, and it is just so heartbreaking. And this sort of thing just makes me so mad! There is absolutely no reason for the airlines to have treated your possessions in this manner.
ReplyDeleteOh, NO! Oh, Bonnie, and she was so beautiful. :(
ReplyDeleteI cannot believe the disrespect that was shown your possessions!!!!
ReplyDeleteWhy did that huge backpack get to stay? So unfair.
But I am sure you will make the best of a bad situation.
XOXOX Subee
So sorry for your heartbreaking losses...it brought back memories from last year when my daughter was flying to be in a wedding for a bff and was told she had to check the dress because there was no room in the overheads.She didn't want to let go of it but it was either check it or have her removed from the flight...you guessed it - it never showed up at her destination nor did her suitcase...to add insult to injury the airlines found it all and brought it to her on the flight she was taking home two days after the wedding. The good part to this story is that a store in the other city had the exact same dress in her size which she was able to purchase...the airlines did reimburse her but she had to go through hoops - so good luck with this challenge.
ReplyDeleteThat's horrible! I can not even imagine how hard they must have tossed that bag to break the motor off the machine! WOW! It's just irresponsible. Which airline was it (or can't you say?)!!!
ReplyDeleteI am sickened by this... I just flew and watched them sling the bags into the cargo area and thought "I hope that wasn't breakable"
ReplyDeleteGood luck getting compensated for a vintage machine. DO NOT let them go by the AGE of the machine or you won't get much at all. Hopefully you can find a repairman to fix it. I know someone who sent one in to a gentleman who revamps them, paints them and such.
I have a rider on my home owners that covers my computer for like $20. a year. If I drop it or spill or as it so happened- lightening strike- it is a REPLACEMENT VALUE policy.
STAND YOU GROUND WITH THE AIRLINES.... The net could be your friend in this- BAD publicity is NOT what the airlines are looking for in this tough economic climate.
Good luck!
So sorry to hear about this. So sad that you possessions where destroyed and even sadder that there are people so unhappy in their work and lives that they would treat other people's things so ruthlessly.
ReplyDeleteA lot of people read your blog and facebook page...maybe you should name the airline and where you were flying to/from...and let the airline know you are doing just that. :) You might see a little more progress towards making you happy. This is awful.
ReplyDeletei agree with the above comment, and then I would write a letter to the editor of your biggest paper. You never know they might post it. and you know it will go on their online paper for sure. that way you may gets some good action. Although I don't know how they could fix it. How stupid hey. Sorry to hear about your trouble.
ReplyDeleteElly
I am so sorry for your loss, she was a loyal and beautiful friend.
ReplyDeleteWe should start a restore Bonnie Hunter's Featherweight page.
I'm just sick to see your gorgeous Featherweight all broken like that. Raise holy he77 with the airline and next time someone has taken the under-seat spot where YOUR carry-on goes just pull it out and politely dump it on their lap. Let them check their oversize junk plane-side. Sometimes you just have to let your inner bitch out. LOL
ReplyDeleteSO SAD! :-( Unfortunately, filing the claim will probably be a royal pain, too. :-(
ReplyDeleteI can't believe they did that to your beautiful machine!! Years ago the airline broke one of the latches on my Featherweight case, and I had to tie it shut for years before I found a replacement. (I can't remember why they even had their hands on it.) I thought it was kind of insane that you had to go to San Fran in the first place to get from Boise to Redmond! (But then I have on several occasions gone through Denver to get from Eugene to Billings.) I sure hope you have good luck with your claim. That was a beautiful machine, and I know the ones with special paint jobs are pretty expensive. Sharon-ssauser@dishmail.net
ReplyDeleteDitto to the 134 comments before mine. I was so mad when I saw the mess they had made of the machine. At my desk at work, swearing and work team peers wondering: what now, Cindy??!
ReplyDeleteOh Bonnie,
ReplyDeleteWhat a bummer, on top of your laptop failing too. I feel really badly about your pretty featherweight. They (the airlines) should have some kind of size limitation for carry on bags so that there's room under the seats for each person's carry-on and one person can't take up extra space. If that rule had been in place you wouldn't have had to check your carry-on.
I am beyond gutted for you. Be the woman of steel and insist that since they forced you to check what would have been carried on due to space taken up already (did I read right it was taken up by another passenger with oversized bag?) and they broke your computer and difficult to have replaced featherweight, they cough up for full current day market value. Can you sing? Just thinking of that guy who wrote those songs on U tube about his broken guitar...
ReplyDeleteLet them know you will name and shame them for such appalling practices if they refuse to compensate you fairly.
Can the guy who painted your pink FW do another to replace it? If so he could give you the full current replacement cost.
I wish you all the best resolving this...
I am hurting physically and mentally for you. That's a crime. Please give us a hint of which plane service did this so we can black ball them when we fly. I loved to see than beautiful machine. Terrible loss, like losing a member of your family. Hugs to you. ♥
ReplyDeleteSo sorry for your loss! I was thinking of bringing my FW from the UK. I will never give that a thought again.
ReplyDeleteThis is heartbreaking...first the computer and now your sewing macine! It is a crime and they should definitely come good for some of the expense. Good luck!
ReplyDeletescrappy_nanna@hotmail.com
So sorry for your loss Bonnie! I would be furious and demanding restitution. Don't give up...keep complaining to whomever you can get to listen. I wish you the best of luck in getting anything out of the airline. Have you ever watched those guys load a plane with luggage? OMG...they just throw it like it is a bag of garbage. They are the ones who should reimburse you..maybe then they would treat people's belongings a little more carefully.
ReplyDeleteOh Bonnie!- What sad news - a good lesson to us all-~Susan
ReplyDeleteHoly Toledo! :-( @#$%!!!
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness. I feel so bad for that little featherweight. I have always loved that color and now it is in 3 pieces. Go after those guys and make them pay. I hope you will be able to get it fixed as I know it is your favorite. Sorry about the computer too.
ReplyDeleteOMG!!! What airline have you been flying, time to change, first your laptop now your beautiful FW. I am soo sorry to see this, am noting if I ever fly with my machine I will never check it!! You can probably get it welded, but you will see the seam it wont be smooth, I wonder if you can get another tray and have it painted to match as close as possible and have it reattached and have the motor reattached.
ReplyDeleteOh the poor baby. This is heartbreaking. How's the claims process going? I hope you give them serious serious hell!
ReplyDeleteBonnie, if you don't get coverage from the airline, do not overlook your homeowner's insurance. You may be able to file a claim that way. Best wishes ANC
ReplyDeleteD good luck!
Oh, that's just sickening. As an amateur auto restorer, I spoke to several very good welders and none of them felt that they could do much for your machine, but JB Weld is a pretty amazing product. It might glue the motor back into place. You'd probably be better off to get a replacement extension bed and repaint it, rather than try to fix the existing one, HOWEVER...the airline should definitely offer you full replacement cost for another comparable Featherweight. Hold your ground and don't take no for an answer!
ReplyDelete