Increased air traffic and a shortage of security screeners are the main reasons for a possible "baggage meltdown," said Rep. John Mica, R-Fla., chairman of the House Aviation Subcommittee.

This year, with a number of airlines saddled with staff shortages and financial difficulties, there likely will be fewer personnel and even more luggage plus the occasional security bottleneck, Mica said.

USA Today quoted statistics showing a 23 percent increase in lost or mishandled luggage in 2005. About 3.6 million bags were mishandled last year, according to Department of Transportation data.