Guide For Taking Human Ashes on Aer Lingus: Essential Rules and Costs

This page provides everything you need to know about flying with human ashes on Aer Lingus.

While this guide is primarily aimed at UK and Irish passengers flying with ashes, the same general guidelines apply to most Aer Lingus flights worldwide.

Can You Take Human Ashes on Aer Lingus?

The good news is that Aer Lingus does allow passengers to transport human ashes.

However, there are specific guidelines and restrictions you need to follow.

Note: Country rules are the most important rules, ensure you are familiar with local laws.

Aer Lingus Destinations: The airline serves countries such as the Republic of Ireland, the United States, Spain, Portugal, and France. All have different rules.

Verify the regulations for the country you’re traveling to before departure.

Aer Lingus Policy and Rules for Taking Ashes on a Plane

Required Documentation

To fly with ashes, you must carry:

• Death Certificate
• Cremation Certificate

Additional Documentation May Be Required: Specific documents may be needed depending on the destination country.

Please review the details further down the page for guidance.

Urn Requirements

• Secure and leak-proof: Ensures safe transport.
• X-ray friendly materials: Use non-metallic materials like glass, ceramic, plastic, wood, or marble for hassle-free security checks.
• Size and weight: The urn must comply with Aer Lingus’ baggage size and weight restrictions.

Cabin or Hold

You can store the urn in your carry-on or checked luggage. We recommend the carry-on luggage, this ensure the ashes remain with you at all times.

Carry-on baggage

• Max weight: 10kg
• Max dimensions: 55cm x 40cm x 24cm

Hold luggage

• Max size: Total dimensions = 158cm
• Max weight: 20kg

Tip: If needed, you can upgrade your baggage allowance for a fee.

Weight of Ashes and Urn

• Average weight of ashes: 1.8kg to 4kg
• Typical urn weight: 1kg to 3kg
• Scatter tubes: Lightweight option at just 0.35kg.

Pre-Travel Notification:

Aer Lingus does not explicitly require pre-travel notification, but it is highly recommended to inform the airline in advance to avoid any issues.

Country-Specific Rules for Traveling With Ashes

Country-Specific Documentation

When transporting ashes with Aer Lingus, additional documentation is often required beyond the death or cremation certificate.

• This may include paperwork from embassies, consulates, local health ministries, or other relevant authorities.
• Additional documents may be needed from both the destination and departure countries.

All required documentation, including your flight details and passport, must be submitted to airport customs in advance.

Always carry the original documents with you.

All documentation must be emailed to customs before your arrival.

Important: Failing to comply with both airline and destination country rules can result in denied boarding, fines, or refusal of entry.

Costs for Transporting Ashes:

Airlines, including Aer Lingus, typically do not charge fees for transporting ashes.

However, additional costs may apply for customs clearance or documentation.

For more details, visit Guide to Taking Ashes Abroad.

Summary Checklist for Traveling With Ashes on Aer Lingus

Z Carry the Death Certificate and Cremation Certificate.

Z Use an urn that is leak-proof and made of x-ray-friendly materials.

Z Ensure the urn fits within carry-on or checked luggage size and weight limits.

Z Verify the destination country’s customs and legal requirements.

Z Inform Aer Lingus of your plans in advance, if possible.

Thanks for reading – we do hope this guide helps you.

We wish you a safe flight : )

Need Some Help?

We will be happy to answer your questions.

Email: airline@rosyinternational.co.uk

UK Callers: 0800 058 4557

International Callers: +44 800 058 4557