With the release of iOS 18.2, Apple has introduced an improved feature for its AirTag item trackers aimed at simplifying the process of finding lost luggage. The “Share Item Location” functionality is dependent on airline participation, and this week, the largest airline in the U.S. confirmed its involvement.
While American Airlines is the third largest in terms of fleet size and revenue, it operates more flights carrying passengers on a daily basis than any other airline in the country.
This makes American Airlines’ adoption of Apple’s Share Item Location feature particularly significant for travelers hoping to track down lost baggage.
Since the launch of AirTags, they have been vital for travelers in locating lost luggage. However, simply notifying an airline of your lost item didn’t always ensure efficient recovery.
The Share Item Location feature enables you to share your AirTag’s location privately and securely with personnel at participating airlines.
“Apple has collaborated closely with partner airlines to implement systems that securely and privately accept Share Item Location, utilizing the vast number of Apple devices already in use by many airlines,” Apple states. “Access to each link will be restricted to a select group of individuals, and recipients will need to authenticate via their Apple Account or partner email address to view it.”
American Airlines reports that less than 1% of baggage is mishandled, with most being returned within a day of being lost. Nevertheless, the airline anticipates that this new AirTag feature will further expedite the recovery process.
If your luggage equipped with an AirTag is left behind for any reason, you can begin a baggage claim by scanning the Share Item Location QR code available at the baggage office.
To see a complete list of airlines that support Share Item Location, check our updated listing here. You can also purchase an individual Apple AirTag for as low as $23.19 on Amazon, or opt for a four-pack for just $79.99 (regularly $99.99).
