I travelled from NY to Mumbai on 14th Aug 2006. At the JFK airport I was instructed by a British Airways authority to put my IPod 30GB from my hand luggage to my check-in baggage. I was also asked to keep my bag "OPEN" and not lock it or the officials will have to break open my bag, and all this at the name of security. I did as instructed and checked in an unlocked bag.
When I entered the plane and took my seat I was shocked to see the person next to me carrying a similar IPod. He was not an Asian, this is probably the best answer I could give to convince myself (Sorry if somebody is hurt with this interpretation of mine, but I am just being true).

When I reached Mumbai Airport, my bag was half open. I opened my bag to check if the IPod was there, but it wasnt!.  I complained the authorities and the BA attendent there asked me to keep calling  BA and not give up if I wanted any response on this complaint. I tried calling BA on their number and gave up calling after 4 days when I had learnt the BA tune (that playes when you call them) by heart. I finally decided to meet some official personally. I met Daisy Jesia and she told me that its not their responsibilty only after confirming that I was not a Business class passenger and merely a Economy class passenger. She also told me that they usually are unable to take calls because they are busy with the flights. I really see a need for more hiring from BA!

Today I have got a letter which says ’  WITHOUT PREJUDICE....sorry we cant compensate for the loses..blah blah blah ’ And all I can remember is two things, the person next to me who was carrying an IPod in the aircraft and the Official who confirmed the class I travelled in before saying a polite NO.

I hope this review helps people become more cautious towards such incidences. Please avoid carrying valuable items specially during high security times.

-Manish Mirchandani

No. of times flown on this Airlines:	Between 4 - 6
Class flown most frequently:	Economy Class