‘Complete chaos’: 2,500 bags unclaimed at YVR in wake of snowstorms

Close to 2,500 pieces of luggage sit unclaimed behind a newly built enclosure on Vancouver airport’s second floor.

Since few immediate measures were put in place to ensure the security of the mounting bag buildup amid last week’s snowstorms, some passengers worry their stuff has been stolen.

Toronto’s Kim Tanczos landed at YVR the night of Dec. 23 to a sea of suitcases being looked after by a single baggage claim worker. Her Air Canada flight was among thousands that arrived late.

Tanczos’ carry-on luggage, which held her 14-year-old daughter’s insulin and her husband’s sleep apnea machine, was nowhere to be found.

“It was complete chaos. I witnessed a parent crying, saying their children have no clothes,” according to the 49-year-old, who says she was told by the baggage attendant the whereabouts of her family’s luggage was unknown.