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The Transporting A Body By Air After Death Information Hub

Transporting a body by air after death is one of those things no one thinks about until they have to. Whether someone dies far from home or wants to be buried in another country, navigating airline policies, paperwork, and logistics can feel overwhelming during an already difficult time. This hub walks you through the process so you understand what is required, who to contact, and how to bring your loved one home with care and dignity. It is a rarely discussed part of final arrangements, but one that matters deeply.

Transporting A Body by Air After Death Information Hub

Table of Contents

Key Things To Know

Before you start making calls or booking flights, there are a few important facts to understand about transporting a body by air. Some are required by law, others by airline policy, and not all of them are intuitive. You do not have to use a broker, though many people choose to for convenience or because a funeral home recommends it. If you're hands-on and comfortable with paperwork, you can coordinate air transport yourself.

  • Most airlines require the body to be shipped as cargo, not luggage. You’ll work with the airline’s cargo department, not passenger services. Some airlines have specific "human remains" desks or hotlines.
  • Embalming or refrigeration is usually required. Especially for long-distance or international flights, embalming is standard. Some countries will not allow entry without it.
  • You must use an approved container. This is typically a hermetically sealed casket or a casket inside an outer shipping container. The funeral home or mortuary transport service can help you meet airline and TSA requirements.
  • Airlines only work with licensed funeral homes or mortuary services. So even if you’re not using a broker, you’ll need to involve a licensed provider to handle the preparation and documentation.
  • Every airline has its own rules and paperwork. Don’t assume what works for one will work for another. Start with a call to the cargo department of the airline you plan to use.
  • You’ll need specific documents. These typically include the death certificate, a burial transit permit, and sometimes an embalming certificate or letter of non-contagious disease.
  • Flights may not be immediate. Cargo availability, weather, and paperwork processing can delay transport. Plan accordingly if you’re coordinating funeral or memorial services on the other end.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to transporting a body by air, even the most organized families run into unfamiliar territory. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear, from logistics to legal requirements to what happens once the plane lands.

Yes. Airlines usually require that a licensed funeral home or mortuary service prepares the body and coordinates the shipment. While you do not need to hire a broker, a licensed professional must be involved in the process.

Sometimes. If you are using a major commercial airline that offers cargo services for human remains, you may be able to book a passenger ticket on the same flight. However, you will need to confirm availability and logistics with the airline’s cargo department.

You will typically need a certified copy of the death certificate, a burial transit permit, and an embalming certificate or letter stating that the body is free of contagious disease. Some international destinations may require translated or notarized versions of these documents.

It depends on the airline and destination. Most flights longer than a few hours, or any international repatriation, require embalming. Some countries do not permit entry without it. If embalming is not performed, refrigeration and special packaging may be required.

Yes, but there are separate rules. Cremated remains can often be transported as carry-on luggage if packed in a TSA-approved, non-metallic container. Some people also ship cremated remains through USPS or international postal services that allow it. Always check the specific airline or carrier’s rules in advance.

Costs can range widely based on distance, airline, required paperwork, and whether you use a third-party service. Domestic transport within the U.S. may cost between $1,000 and $4,000. International transport often ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on complexity.

You will need a receiving funeral home or licensed provider at the destination who can claim the body from the airline’s cargo facility. They will also assist with customs clearance, transportation from the airport, and preparation for burial or cremation.

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Disclaimer: The information provided on this website and by Buried in Work is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult with a qualified attorney or subject matter expert for advice specific to your situation.