Guide For Taking Human Ashes on Qatar Airways: Essential Rules and Costs
Flying with human ashes on Qatar Airways can seem daunting, but with the right information, you can ensure a smooth journey.
This guide provides everything you need to know about carrying human ashes on Qatar Airways, including the essential documents, airline policies, and country-specific regulations.
While this guide is primarily aimed at UK and Irish passengers flying outbound with human ashes, the same guidelines generally apply to all worldwide Qatar Airways flights.
Can You Take Human Ashes on Qatar Airways?
Yes, you can take human ashes on Qatar Airways. However, the rules may vary depending on the country you’re flying to.
Based on firsthand communication with the airline, we have compiled this page to outline their policies for travelers carrying human ashes.
Note: This guide specifically covers human ashes; animal ashes are not included. Additionally, the airline is not responsible for country-specific rules, so it’s crucial to understand the regulations of the country you are flying to.
Main countries Served by Qatar Airways: Qatar, Australia, India, Thailand, United Arab Emirates. Please note that some countries, like Qatar, may not allow ashes to enter through customs.
Are You Compliant?
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Qatar Airways Policy and Rules for Taking Ashes on a Plane
What Documents Do You Need?
- Death Certificate
- Cremation Certificate
These documents must be readily available throughout your journey.
Additional Documentation May Be Required: You may need specific documents based on the destination country. For further details, see the information lower down the page.
Urn Requirements
- Material: The urn must be made of X-ray scannable materials, such as glass, wood, plastic, marble, or ceramic.
- Seal: The urn must be securely sealed and placed within an outer box that is also securely packed.
Size and Weight Limits:
- Hand Luggage Limit: The urn, including its outer container, must fit within your hand luggage. Qatar Airways allows one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 7kg (50cm x 37cm x 25cm). Business and first-class passengers can carry up to 15kg across two bags.
- Weight Considerations: The ashes typically weigh between 1.8kg and 4kg, and the urn can add an additional 1kg to 3kg, bringing the total weight to around 2.8kg to 7kg.
Important: Ashes must be carried in your hand luggage—this reduces the risk of damage or loss compared to checked baggage.
Pre-Travel Notice
It is mandatory to inform the ground staff at check-in that you are carrying human ashes. Notify security staff as well when passing through airport security checks.
Contact Qatar Airways
Email: athoffice@gr.qatarairways.com
Website: https://www.qatarairways.com/en-gb/homepage.html
Phone: +30 210 9508700
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Country-Specific Rules for Qatar Airways & Human Ashes
Airline Limitations and Responsibilities
Airlines are not responsible for knowing or enforcing the rules of your destination country.
It is your responsibility to understand the arrival country’s regulations regarding the transport of ashes.
Customs Authority
Customs officials in the destination country have the final say on whether or not ashes are allowed entry.
Be prepared with all necessary documentation, as customs policies vary by country.
Country-Specific Documentation
When transporting ashes with Qatar Airways, 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 your flight details and passport, must be submitted to airport customs in advance. Make sure to carry all original documents with you.
All documentation must be emailed to customs before your arrival.
Purpose of Transporting Ashes
Reflect on the reason for carrying ashes to the destination. Confirm if your intentions, such as scattering ashes, are legally permissible in the arrival country.
Home Storage of Ashes
Some countries have regulations that prevent keeping human ashes in private residences. Check local laws to ensure compliance.
Cost for Carrying Ashes on Qatar Airways
While Qatar Airways does not charge a fee for carrying ashes, nearly all countries impose fees for customs clearance.
For more information about costs and documentation, please visit Guide to Taking Ashes Abroad.
Failing to comply with country-specific or airline rules may result in fines, refusal to board, or denial of entry into the destination country.
Know the Rules?
Check country specfic laws for hassle-free travel.
Summary Checklist for Traveling with Ashes on Qatar Airways
Death Certificate & Cremation Certificate: Ensure these are readily available.
Notify Ground Staff: Inform airline staff at check-in and airport security.
Urn Requirements: Use a non-metallic, sealed urn suitable for X-ray scanning.
Weight & Size Compliance: Make sure the urn meets hand luggage requirements.
Understand Destination Rules: Check local regulations for transporting and storing ashes.
Prepare for Costs: Be aware of customs fees.
By following these guidelines, you can make your journey with Qatar Airways as seamless as possible.
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
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