Edited sentence: Also, any checked items, even if gate-checked will not be replaced if they are damaged beyond repair.Due to limited travel in the southeast, they may not have a representative on staff at smaller airports.If your luggage is damaged there will be no one to take a complaint within 24 hours which is one of the clauses in their luggage liability disclaimer.It is not recommended that you fly Northwest Airlines.Northwest Airlines is known for its terrible customer service, especially in terms of lost or damaged luggage.Note that other more customer-friendly airlines such as Continental Airlines will assume responsibility for lost or damaged luggage and will replace damaged items.This may be very costly to you as the traveler