Guidance on Taking Cremated Remains on Flights
GUIDANCE ON TAKING CREMATED REMAINS ON FLIGHTS
After saying goodbye to your loved one, you may wish to repatriate their ashes or travel with them to a meaningful location. Can you take cremated remains on a plane? Yes, with a few simple precautions.
GENERAL GUIDANCE ON FLYING WITH ASHES
There are no legal barriers to carrying ashes on flights in Australia or overseas. To ensure a smooth journey:
- Use the sealed container from the crematorium, resistant to breakage
- Carry documentation confirming cremated remains
- Check any special incoming country requirements
- Research local scattering restrictions if applicable
AIRLINE-SPECIFIC POLICIES
- Virgin Australia: Ashes must be in funeral urns with supporting documents, undergo screening, and conform to baggage size limits.
- Qantas: Allows checked/carry-on ashes in contaminant-free, screened containers with crematorium confirmation. Weight limits apply.
- Jetstar: No formal paperwork or declaration requirements to carry ashes.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON TRAVELLING WITH LOVED ONES' ASHES
With simple preparations, ashes can accompany you on flights anywhere locally or globally. At Funera Sydney, we're here to clarify any concerns around transporting cremated remains, allowing you to repatriate or scatter your loved one in a place of significance. Please reach out if we can assist with any part of respectful memorial planning.