Can You Take Human Ashes on a Qatar Airways Flight? – Our Experience Explained

Even though we’ve never personally flown with Qatar Airways, we’ve had extensive discussions with them over the phone, including a conversation with one of their air hostesses (at Heathrow Airport). Based on this firsthand communication, we’ve created this guide to outline the airline’s policies for those travelling with human ashes, aiming to offer a transparent and comprehensive resource.

Note: This guide is specifically about human ashes; animal ashes are not included.

Can You Take Ashes on a Plane With Qatar Airways?

Yes, you absolutely can. However, Qatar Airways has certain rules and regulations that travellers must adhere to. Below are the guidelines you should follow to ensure a smooth journey.

Hand Luggage Rules for Qatar Airways Ashes Transport

Ashes can only be stored in your hand luggage. This is considered safer than placing them in your checked baggage, reducing the risks of damage or loss.

Qatar Airways Ashes Container Guidelines

The ashes must be stored in a non-metallic container that can be scanned by X-ray machines at the airport. While Qatar Airways doesn’t specify a particular type of urn, it must meet these requirements. Additionally, the urn should be enclosed in a sealed outer box for extra safety.

Essential Documents for Carrying Ashes on Qatar Airways

You must carry the following:

• Death certificate
• Cremation certificate

These documents need to be readily available throughout your journey.

Notify Ground Staff

It’s mandatory to inform the ground staff at check-in that you’re carrying human ashes. You should also notify security staff as you go through the airport security checks.

Qatar Airways Flight Urn Restrictions

For those planning to use an urn as the container, here are the criteria it must meet:

• Material: The urn should be made of X-ray scannable materials such as glass, wood, plastic, marble, or ceramic.
• Seal: The urn needs to be securely sealed and placed within an outer box that is also securely packed to withstand turbulence.
• Size and Weight: Ensure the urn, within its outer case, fits within your hand luggage. Also, note that the total weight of your hand luggage must not exceed Qatar Airways’ weight limit of 7kg.

Qatar Airways Hand Luggage Allowance for Ashes

Qatar Airways allows one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 7kg and measuring 50cm x 37cm x 25cm. Business and first-class passengers have a total weight allowance of 15kg spread across two bags of the same dimensions.

Navigating International Travel With Ashes on Qatar Airway

While Qatar Airways permits the transport of ashes to all countries they service, each destination may have its own regulations. It’s advised to contact the embassy of the country you’re flying to for specific entry requirements related to human ashes.

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