If you’ve ever needed to take cremated remains on a commercial flight, there are a few things to keep in mind. Flying across the country or to the other side of the world isn’t what it used to be. Airport screenings and airline regulations can make even the simplest flights overwhelming. So it’s best to prepare yourself and understand all the issues involved when flying with ashes from a loved one’s cremation.
Depending on the airline, travelers may place a container of cremated remains inside checked luggage, although there is the chance of it getting lost or damaged. Also, keep in mind, this method will add additional weight, sometimes up to an extra 10-15 pounds.
However, according to the Transportation Security Administration, if you carry ashes on board, the container is subject to screening and must pass through the x-ray machine. All the major airlines have protocol for handling of cremated remains and are listed on their websites. It’s in your best interest to look up the requirements to minimize your stress level at the airport.
If the TSA operator cannot approve the container, other non-intrusive procedures are applied. However, if the urn still cannot be cleared, it will not be allowed on board. TSA workers are not allowed to open the ashes’ container, even if the consumer allows it. Even documentation from the funeral home working with the family is not sufficient.
So what can consumers do to make this process go smoother? The TSA recommends transporting the cremains in a light-weight plastic or wood container for ashes, typically provided by a funeral home. Once consumers reach their destination, they can have the ashes removed from the temporary container to a permanent one by one of the TSA’s Funeral Home Partners. This is a complimentary service.
Most funeral homes will do the transfer of ashes without being a TSA partner. We recommend contacting a funeral provider at your destination to inquire about this service. It’s becoming very common now and not an unusual request.
