My brother flew with VA from LHR-JFK (connection from TLV on Elal). They lost his suitcase and didn't get to him till many phone calls and 72 hours later (from an airline that has 7 direct daily flights...).
He bought a suit, winter coat, shoes and some other basic stuff (clothing and toiletries) totaling in about $700.
According to their website, they only give $50 compensation for lost luggage! Obviously, he'll submit a claim for everything, but what is reasonable to expect them to pay back? Is their an enforceable DOT requirement ?
(Ticket was purchased on my Citi Prestige CC which does not give coverage to others (or at least not to non-dependants)).