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Funeral Shipments Via Air
- marycoupland5
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Losing a loved one can be especially difficult when families are separated by long distances and international borders. In our modern world, migration is the new normal and people often move far away from their hometown for economic and cultural reasons. Still, a person’s birth place frequently ends up being their final resting place and in such situations questions arise regarding how to send the deceased back home.
When time is of the essence, using air transport to ship a body is a good option. Here are some FAQs on shipping human remains via air:
How do I ship a body on an airline?
Human remains are shipped in the cargo hold of an airplane, however individuals cannot arrange with airlines to transport their loved one as cargo. Per Transport Security Agency (TSA) rules, in order to transport cargo by air carrier you must be a “known shipper.” Most funeral homes are “known shippers,” which means they have been inspected and qualified by the TSA and thus meet all the necessary security regulations. Your funeral director can make the casket delivery and collection arrangements at the origin and destination airports as required.
What documents are required for shipping a body?
Documentation varies as each airline has its own procedural and paperwork requirements, but you should at least provide the following: physician/coroner certificate, burial transit permit, funeral home affidavit, and passport of the deceased (if necessary).
How much does it cost to ship a body by air?
Total costs will depend on weight and distance. Most airlines require that the remains are secured in a hermetically sealed casket or other approved container to prevent shifting or escape of odors during flight. An airtray (outer container made of wood, plastic, or canvas) is also required and some airlines have weight restrictions on shipments over 500 pounds.
Is embalming required?
Most air carriers do not require the body to be embalmed but it is a logical consideration, especially if the body is traveling a significant distance or from an international locale. The U.S. has specific entry requirements for quarantine and customs, and embalmed remains are more likely to be processed faster.
Can I accompany the body?
Yes. Your funeral director can help make the necessary arrangements so that you travel on the same flight as your loved one. Some airlines still offer bereavement fares so you may be able take advantage of this discount, but keep in mind that online tickets are usually cheaper than bereavement fares.
What if my loved one dies abroad?
When a U.S. citizen dies abroad, the family should contact the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs for assistance with transporting the remains home. Final disposition will depend on U.S. and foreign death practices as well as original/destination airport customs requirements. The Consular Officer can help you obtain the necessary documentation for the shipment. It’s also important to note that the State department does not provide any financial assistance in transporting the remains of U.S. citizens who die abroad, and some airlines also have embargoes prohibiting shipment of cargo to and from certain countries.
Can I carry cremated remains on an airline?
Yes. Cremated remains are accepted as carry-on or checked baggage by most airlines, and can also be shipped as cargo (only by known shippers). If ashes are carried on the airplane, the urn/container must pass through the x-ray machine or it will not be allowed through security. In addition, you must provide a death or cremation certificate for the cremated remains in order to carry them on board.
Article Submitted by:
Tim and Alison Dinan, Owners
Cook Family Funeral Home, Cremation Service, and Hillcrest Cemetery
206-842-2642
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