Can You Take Human Ashes on a Virgin Atlantic Flight?

After contacting Virgin Atlantic via phone support, we’ve put together this informative piece to explain and clarify their rules and regulations regarding travelling with ashes on their flights.

What Virgin Atlantic Allows for Ashes

If you’ve been wondering whether it’s possible to carry human ashes on a Virgin Atlantic flight, the answer is yes. However, there are some strict guidelines you’ll need to follow. Here’s a breakdown of what’s required:

Keeping the Ashes in Cabin Baggage

Ashes must be taken onboard as part of your cabin baggage. Virgin Atlantic explicitly does not allow transportation of human ashes in hold luggage. Keeping them in your carry-on bag provides you with peace of mind, ensuring that they won’t be misplaced or damaged.

Required Documentation for Ashes on Virgin Atlantic

It is mandatory to travel with a copy of the death certificate and cremation certificate readily available; the airport security and airline will likely check the documents.

Virgin Atlantic’s Container Requirements for Ashes

The ashes must be transported in a ‘security-friendly’ container. Virgin Atlantic recommends that the container be lightweight and made of plastic or wood. However, any material that passes through security is acceptable. The container must also be secure and tightly shut.

No Advance Notice Required for Ashes on Virgin Atlantic

Interestingly, Virgin Atlantic does not require you to inform them in advance that you’re travelling with ashes. Still, it’s crucial that you follow the specified processes.

Security Measures for Ashes on Virgin Atlantic

Should the container you chose be unscannable by X-ray at security, it will be immediately refused. It’s important to note that security personnel are not allowed to open the container under any circumstances.

Urn Restrictions for Ashes on Virgin Atlantic Flights

If you choose to travel with ashes in an urn, ensure that:

• The urn is made from materials that can pass through a security X-ray – like plastic, ceramic, marble, wood, or glass.
• The urn’s lid is securely fastened.
• The urn must fit within your carry-on luggage and adhere to Virgin Atlantic’s weight limit, which is a maximum of 10 kg.

Baggage Allowance

Virgin Atlantic allows one item of cabin baggage measuring 23cm x 36cm x 56cm, including wheels and handles. If you’re an ‘Upper Class’ passenger, you can bring on two bags with a total combined weight of 16 kg. These bags must also meet the size requirements.

International Considerations for Ashes on Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic permits the transportation of ashes to any country they fly to. However, it’s crucial to note that different countries have different rules and regulations. Therefore, contact the embassy of your destination country to ensure you have the correct paperwork.

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