Transporting the ashes of a loved one can be a sensitive and emotional experience. Whether you’re traveling to scatter the ashes in a meaningful place or bringing them back home, it’s important to understand the logistics and costs involved in taking cremated remains on a plane. The good news is that many airlines have policies in place to accommodate this, and costs tend to be minimal. However, navigating airline rules, packaging requirements, and other travel considerations can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from costs to tips for a smooth journey.
Is There a Cost to Take Ashes on a Plane?
In most cases, there is no specific fee charged by airlines to transport cremated remains. The ashes typically count as a carry-on or checked baggage, which means the only cost you may incur is if the ashes add an extra item beyond your ticket’s baggage allowance.
Here’s a quick overview:
- Domestic Flights: Most airlines allow you to bring ashes onboard for free as long as they fit within your carry-on luggage limit. If you’re checking them, there might be standard baggage fees if they exceed your baggage allowance.
- International Flights: The same applies to international travel, though additional documentation may be required depending on the country of destination. Check with both the airline and the consulate of the destination country for any special rules.
Examples of Airline Policies for Traveling with Ashes
Each airline has its own set of policies regarding the transport of cremated remains. Here are some examples of common practices from major carriers:
Delta Airlines
Delta allows cremated remains as either checked or carry-on baggage at no extra cost. However, they recommend keeping the ashes in your carry-on luggage for safety reasons. Delta does not require special approval for domestic flights, but for international flights, they advise checking with the destination country’s consulate to ensure compliance with local regulations.
American Airlines
American Airlines similarly permits ashes as carry-on baggage without an additional fee. They specify that the ashes must be contained in a non-metallic urn that can be scanned by the X-ray machine at the security checkpoint. If the urn is made of metal and cannot be X-rayed, it may not be allowed through security.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest also allows cremated remains as carry-on luggage. Like other airlines, they emphasize the importance of the container being X-ray friendly, and they recommend carrying all necessary documentation, such as the death certificate and cremation certificate, to avoid any issues during the security process.
United Airlines
United Airlines requires that cremated remains be transported in carry-on luggage and recommends that you contact their customer service before traveling to ensure everything is in order. They, too, stress the use of non-metallic, X-ray-transparent containers.
International Airlines
For international flights, rules can be more complex. For example, British Airways permits cremated remains but requires a death certificate and a cremation certificate. Some countries, such as Italy, may also require permits from local authorities before you can bring in the ashes.
Additional Costs to Consider
While airlines generally do not charge for transporting ashes, there are additional costs to be aware of when flying with cremated remains:
- Extra Baggage Fees: If the ashes count as an extra carry-on or checked bag, you may have to pay a standard baggage fee. These fees typically range from $25 to $50 per bag, depending on the airline and destination.
- Special Containers: You may need to purchase a special urn or container that complies with airline and TSA regulations. Urns must be made of materials that can pass through X-ray machines, such as wood, plastic, or cardboard. Metal urns are discouraged because they may prevent security from properly scanning the contents.
- Documentation Costs: Some countries may require official permits or notarized documents to transport ashes across borders, which could incur extra costs. You might also need to have a certified copy of the death certificate and the certificate of cremation, especially for international travel.
Tips for Flying with Ashes
To ensure a smooth experience when traveling with cremated remains, here are some helpful tips:
1. Pack the Ashes in a TSA-Approved Urn
To avoid any problems at the security checkpoint, use an urn or container that can be easily X-rayed. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends containers made from wood, cardboard, or plastic. Make sure to avoid metal or other materials that may be opaque to X-ray machines, as TSA agents will not open the urn and may deny it if they cannot properly scan it.
2. Carry the Proper Documentation
Always bring a death certificate and certificate of cremation with you, even if the airline does not explicitly require them. Having these documents on hand can help speed up the process if there are any questions or concerns during security checks. If traveling internationally, check with the embassy of your destination country for any specific documentation requirements.
3. Contact the Airline in Advance
While most airlines follow standard procedures for transporting ashes, it’s a good idea to contact the airline in advance of your flight. Confirm the airline’s policy and let them know you’ll be traveling with cremated remains. This ensures there are no surprises at the airport, and the airline can assist you in advance with any special instructions.
4. Opt for Carry-On Over Checked Luggage
Whenever possible, keep the ashes in your carry-on luggage rather than checking them. Carrying them onboard ensures that the remains are not lost in transit or damaged during baggage handling. Airlines recommend this for peace of mind and to avoid potential issues with luggage that gets lost or delayed.
5. Check the Destination Country’s Regulations
If you’re flying internationally, different countries have varying regulations regarding the transport of human remains. Some countries may require additional documentation, while others may have specific rules about where and how the ashes can be brought into the country. It’s crucial to check with the embassy or consulate of your destination to ensure you’re following their legal requirements.
6. Consider Purchasing Travel Insurance
In the rare event that travel delays, cancellations, or other unforeseen circumstances affect your journey, travel insurance can offer some peace of mind. Make sure to read the fine print to confirm that it covers any situations involving cremated remains.
Unusual Customs and Traditions
Different cultures around the world have their own unique customs and requirements when it comes to handling cremated remains. Some countries have rules that may seem unusual to travelers from other regions. For example:
- Japan: In Japan, cremation is the most common funeral practice, and ashes are often divided among family members. However, if you’re flying ashes to Japan, you’ll need to make sure they are transported in a way that complies with both Japanese customs and your airline’s policies.
- India: In India, it is a common tradition to scatter ashes in the Ganges River. Travelers planning to take ashes to India for this purpose may need to check with local authorities and religious sites for any special permissions or restrictions.
Not a complicated process
While flying with cremated remains may initially seem daunting, it’s usually a straightforward process with minimal costs involved. Most airlines do not charge extra fees, and as long as you follow the necessary guidelines—such as packing the ashes in an X-ray-friendly container and carrying the appropriate documentation—traveling with ashes can be a smooth experience. Always check with your airline and destination country to ensure you meet all requirements, and remember that careful preparation will help you navigate the journey with ease.
