Olivia's Blog

Saturday, January 03, 2026

Atlanta International Airport (ATL) Lost and Found Service

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) serves as a major gateway for domestic and international travel, handling millions of passengers every year. With its expansive terminals, multiple concourses, and nonstop foot traffic, it’s not uncommon for travelers to accidentally leave behind personal belongings. From electronics and wallets to bags and documents, misplaced items can quickly turn a smooth trip into a stressful experience.

To help travelers recover lost property, Atlanta Airport operates a dedicated Lost and Found service managed by the Atlanta Airlines Terminal Company (AATC). Understanding how this system works—and knowing who to contact based on where your item was lost—can significantly improve your chances of getting your belongings back.

Overview of ATL Airport Lost and Found Services

Lost and Found at ATL Airport focuses on items lost in public airport spaces. These are areas accessible to all travelers and visitors, including:

  • Airport terminals and concourses

  • Seating and waiting areas

  • Restrooms

  • Baggage claim zones

  • Airport shuttle and transportation areas

If you misplaced something in any of these locations, the airport’s Lost and Found office is responsible for handling your report and assisting with recovery.

However, ATL Airport Lost and Found does not manage all lost items. Certain locations fall under different authorities, and contacting the correct department is essential.

Items Handled by Other Departments

Depending on where the item was lost, travelers may need to reach out elsewhere:

  • Onboard aircraft or airline gate areas: These items are handled directly by the airline you traveled with.

  • TSA security checkpoints: Items left at screening areas are managed by TSA Lost and Found.

  • Checked baggage: Any issues involving checked luggage should be reported to the airline’s baggage services office.

Identifying the exact location where your item was last seen helps ensure your report reaches the right department without delay.

ATL Airport Lost and Found Office Location and Hours

The Lost and Found office at Atlanta Airport is located in the Domestic Terminal Atrium on Level 3, conveniently situated across from the USO office. This central location allows easy access for travelers picking up recovered items.

Office hours are:

  • Monday through Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

  • Closed: Weekends and public holidays

Travelers who are unable to visit in person can submit reports online or contact the office by phone or email during business hours.

How to Report a Lost Item at ATL Airport

Filing a lost item report is a straightforward process and should be done as soon as possible after discovering the loss. The airport provides an online reporting system that allows travelers to submit detailed information quickly.

When submitting a report, passengers should include:

  • Item type, brand, color, and distinguishing features

  • The date and approximate location where the item was lost

  • Personal contact information

  • A photo of the item, if available

After submitting the form, travelers receive a tracking ID, which can be used to check the status of the report and follow updates.

What Happens After a Report Is Submitted?

Once a lost item report is received, Lost and Found staff review their inventory of recovered items and compare them against submitted descriptions. If a possible match is identified, the traveler is contacted by email or phone.

To claim an item, passengers must provide valid identification and proof of ownership, such as photos, serial numbers, or receipts. After verification, travelers can choose to:

  • Pick up the item in person, or

  • Request shipment to their preferred address

Recovered items are typically held for 15 calendar days. Items not claimed within this timeframe may be donated, discarded, or otherwise removed from the system.

Fees and Shipping Options

There is no fee to submit a lost item report or retrieve an item in person. However, travelers who request shipping are responsible for any shipping and handling charges. Costs may vary depending on the item’s size, value, and delivery destination.

Passengers are encouraged to review shipping details carefully before confirming delivery.

TSA Lost and Found at ATL Airport

If you believe your item was lost during the security screening process, you must contact TSA Lost and Found directly, as Lost and Found at ATL Airport does not manage items left behind at security checkpoints. At ATL Airport, the TSA Lost and Found office is located near the main Lost and Found area in the Domestic Terminal North. TSA usually retains items for up to 30 days before disposing of or transferring unclaimed property.

Conclusion

Losing a personal item at a large airport like Atlanta International Airport can be frustrating, but the Lost and Found system in place offers travelers a reliable way to recover misplaced belongings. The most important steps are acting quickly, providing accurate details, and contacting the correct department based on where the item was lost.

Whether your item was misplaced in a terminal, left at security, or forgotten on a plane, following the proper procedures gives you the best chance of being reunited with your belongings. Preparation and timely action can make all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the ATL Airport Lost and Found office located?
It is located on Level 3 of the Domestic Terminal Atrium, across from the USO office.

What are the operating hours?
The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding holidays.

Who handles items lost on airplanes?
Each airline manages its own lost property for items lost onboard or at gates.

Who should I contact for items lost at TSA checkpoints?
TSA Lost and Found handles all items left at security screening areas.

 

Is there a fee to file a lost item report?
No, filing a report and picking up items in person is free. Shipping fees may apply.


Comments