Guide For Taking Human Ashes on Air India: Essential Rules and Costs

This page provides everything you need to know about flying with human ashes on Air India.

While this guide is primarily aimed at UK and Irish passengers traveling with ashes on Air India, most of these guidelines also apply to all Air India flights worldwide.

Can You Take Human Ashes on Air India?

Yes, Air India allows you to take human ashes on their planes, but there are certain conditions and paperwork that need to be met. Here’s what you need to know:

• Air India allows passengers to travel with human ashes, but you must follow specific documentation requirements.
• Please remember, the airline is not in control of the destination country’s rules, so it’s crucial to understand and comply with the regulations of the country you are flying to.

Popular Air India Destinations Include: India, United Arab Emirates, United States, Thailand, Sri Lanka. All countries have there own rules!

Air India Policy and Rules for Taking Ashes on a Plane

Required Documents

The following documents are required when flying with human ashes:

• Cremation Certificate
• Death Certificate

Additional Documentation May Be Required: Depending on the country, specific documentation may be necessary. Check the details further down the page for more information.

Urn Material and Sealing Requirements

When choosing an urn for your loved one’s ashes, consider the following:

• Material: The urn should be made from x-ray-friendly, non-metallic materials such as glass, wood, or plastic.
• Sealing: Ensure the lid is airtight to prevent any accidental spills.
• Packaging: The urn must be well-cushioned to withstand any turbulence or shocks during the journey.

Carry-On or Hold Luggage

Air India permits carrying ashes in either your carry-on or hold luggage.

However, we recommend opting for the carry-on option for better safety and peace of mind.

Baggage Guidelines for Ashes

Carry-On Baggage (recommended option)

• Size: The urn must fit within Air India’s standard cabin baggage dimensions of 55cm x 35cm x 20cm.
• Weight: For economy passengers, it should be less than 8kg, while business class passengers can carry up to 12kg.

Hold Baggage

• Size: The urn should fit within Air India’s baggage size restrictions, complying with the two pieces of baggage allowance.
• Weight: The weight limit is 23kg for economy and 32kg for business class.

Weight of Ashes and Urn

The ashes typically weigh between 1.8kg to 4kg, and the urn can add another 1kg to 3kg, resulting in a total weight between 2.8kg and 7kg.

Alternatively another option could be a scatter tube. This is lighter, weighing only 0.35kg.

Pre-Travel Notice

There are no explicit guidelines on notifying Air India in advance, but it’s always best to inform the airline beforehand to avoid any issues.

 Country-Specific Rules for Air India & Human Ashes

Airline Limitations and Responsibilities

Airlines are not responsible for understanding or enforcing the rules of your destination country. It is your responsibility to be aware of the arrival country’s regulations regarding ashes transport.

Customs Authority

• Customs officials in the arrival country have the final say on whether ashes are allowed entry.
• Be prepared with necessary documentation, as customs policies vary by country.

Country-Specific Documentation

When transporting ashes with Air India, 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 required by both the destination and departure countries.

All necessary documentation, including flight details and your passport, must be submitted to airport customs ahead of time. Be sure to carry all original documents with you.

All documentation must be emailed to customs before your arrival.

Purpose of Transporting Ashes

Confirm whether your intentions, such as scattering ashes, are legally permissible in the arrival country.

Home Storage of Ashes

Some countries have regulations against keeping human ashes in private residences. Check local laws to ensure compliance.

Costs for Carrying Ashes on Air India

Costs: Nearly all countries impose fees for customs clearance.

For detailed cost information on taking ashes abroad, visit this guide.

While Air India typically does not charge fees for carrying ashes, additional costs may arise due to country-specific documentation requirements.

Failing to Comply with Country Rules

Failing to comply with airline and destination country rules may result in fines, denied boarding, or even refusal of entry into the country.

Summary Checklist for Traveling with Ashes on Air India

Z Ensure you have the cremation certificate and death certificate.

Z Choose an urn made of non-metallic material and ensure it is airtight.

Z Pack the urn within the baggage size and weight limits set by Air India.

Z Confirm any country-specific regulations regarding ashes, customs, and home storage.

Z Notify Air India in advance (recommended).

Following these steps will ensure a smooth journey while carrying human ashes on Air India.

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