Guide For Taking Human Ashes on Etihad Airways: Essential Rules and Costs

Flying with human ashes can be a deeply personal and sometimes overwhelming task.

If you’re planning to travel with cremated remains on Etihad Airways, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from essential documents to airline-specific policies and country regulations.

Can You Take Human Ashes on Etihad Airways?

Yes, you 100% can! Etihad Airways allows the transportation of human ashes, but there are specific rules you must follow. 

We reached out to Etihad directly to provide you with the most accurate and updated information.

Important: While Etihad Airways permits ashes, the airline does not control the regulations in your destination country.

Always research the customs rules of your arrival destination to avoid complications.

Countries Served by Etihad Airways:

• United Arab Emirates
• India
• Australia
• Thailand
• Pakistan

Note: If you are traveling to Pakistan, customs may not permit the entry of human ashes.

This is not the airline’s responsibility, so plan accordingly.

Etihad Airways Policy and Rules For Taking Ashes on a Plane

Required Documents: 

1. Death Certificate

2. Cremation Certificate

Additional Documentation May Be Required: Country-specific documents may be needed. Please consult the information further down the page for details.

Urn Type: Use a non-metallic urn to ensure smooth X-ray screening. Metal urns may complicate customs and security checks.

Luggage Guidelines: Human ashes must be transported in checked baggage; they cannot be carried in hand luggage on Etihad Airways.

• Diamond First Class: 110 lb / 50 kg
• Pearl Business Class: 88 lb / 40 kg
• Coral Economy Class: 66 lb / 30 kg
• Infants: 22 lb / 10 kg

Weight and Dimensions of Ashes and Urn

– Average combined weight of ashes and urn: 4.9 kg

– Scatter tubes (lighter alternative): 0.35 kg

– Urn/container dimensions:

• Height: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
• Diameter: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)

Pre-Travel Notification: Etihad Airways does not explicitly require prior notification for transporting ashes, but it is recommended to inform the airline for a smoother process.

Country-Specific Rules for Etihad Airways & Human Ashes

Customs Regulations: 

– Airline Responsibilities: Airlines like Etihad are not responsible for enforcing destination country rules.

– Your Responsibilities: Understand the arrival country’s customs policies, including documentation and permissions.

Country-Specific Documentation

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

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

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

All documentation must be emailed to customs prior to arrival.

Purpose of Transporting Ashes: 

– Confirm if your intended actions, such as scattering ashes, are legally permitted in your destination country.

– Research if the destination allows ashes to be stored in private residences, as some countries have restrictions.

Costs for Carrying Ashes: 

While Etihad Airways does not charge a specific fee for carrying ashes, most countries impose customs clearance fees. Additional documentation fees may apply based on the destination.

Tip: Visit Our detailed guide for detailed advice on country-specific costs and rules about travelling abroad with ashes.

Summary Checklist for Traveling with Ashes on Etihad Airways

Z Prepare Documentation: Have the death and cremation certificates ready.

Z Choose the Right Urn: Opt for a non-metallic urn for customs clearance.

Z Check Airline Baggage Policy: Ensure the urn and ashes fit within the checked baggage weight and size limits.

Z Research Destination Rules: Understand customs and legal requirements for the country you’re traveling to.

Z Notify Etihad Airways (Optional): While not mandatory, informing the airline can help prevent issues during travel.

We do hope this has all helped! Safe Flight : ) 

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