Traveling With Cremains: Jetblue's Policy Explained

Transporting the cremated remains of a loved one can be a stressful and emotionally challenging experience. Each airline has its own set of rules and regulations for travelling with cremains, so it's important to be well-prepared before embarking on your journey. In this paragraph, we will specifically discuss JetBlue's policies and procedures for travelling with cremains, offering helpful tips to make your travel experience as smooth as possible during this difficult time.

JetBlue's policy for flying with human cremains

JetBlue allows passengers to fly with human cremains, but it does not permit pet remains, cremated or otherwise.

To fly with human cremains on JetBlue, you must have the appropriate documentation. This includes a certified copy of the death certificate and an original form or letter from the funeral director or crematorium that performed the cremation. Photocopies of these documents are not allowed. These are the documents required for domestic flights. For international flights, it is the passenger's responsibility to know what documents are needed to bring human cremains into another country.

Human cremains must be transported in an urn, which will be screened by TSA agents. JetBlue's website suggests using a lightweight urn, perhaps made of heavy cardboard, wood, or plastic. The urn must be placed underneath the seat or in the overhead storage compartment and cannot be held by a passenger during takeoff or landing. It is considered a carry-on item, and passengers can also bring their regular number of carry-on items.

TSA-approved urns

Transporting the remains of a loved one can be a stressful experience, and when it comes to air travel, it's important to understand the guidelines set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Cremation urns must comply with specific TSA regulations to ensure a smooth and respectful process.

Size and Material Requirements:

TSA-approved cremation urns have specific size limitations to qualify as carry-on baggage. The urns should be smaller than 7.4 x 5.5 x 9.5 inches (or 18.8 x 14 x 24.1 centimetres). This ensures they can fit in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you.

As for materials, urns can be made from wood, metal, ceramic, or biodegradable materials. However, glass or stone urns are not suitable due to weight and safety concerns. The TSA recommends using a lightweight urn, and some sources suggest a size limit of 9.12" x 7" x 4.75".

Screening and Documentation:

Cremation urns are subject to additional screening. TSA officers may ask for a visual inspection, so it's advisable to inform them about the contents and have relevant documentation ready, such as a death certificate and a copy of the Disposition Permit.

The urn's material must allow TSA officers to clearly determine its contents using an X-ray machine. Lightweight materials like plastic, wood, or cardboard with a plastic bag liner are considered "security-friendly." Avoid lead-lined or opaque containers, as officers will not open them, even at the passenger's request.

TSA-Approved Urn Kits:

TSA-approved urn kits are available and typically include a temporary travel urn, a cardboard shipping box, a plastic bag for cremains, a zip tie, and USPS Cremated Remains stickers. These kits provide three layers of protection and are designed to pass through airport X-ray machines.

Some kits offer personalisation options, such as a nameplate displaying the deceased's name and contact information. This adds a meaningful touch and provides extra security against potential loss.

Additional Considerations:

While TSA-approved urns meet aviation security regulations, it's important to check your chosen airline's specific requirements. Some airlines may have additional rules or restrictions regarding carrying cremated remains. Always communicate with both the TSA and your airline to ensure compliance with all regulations.

Remember, TSA-approved cremation urns provide a respectful and secure means to carry the remains of your loved ones while navigating air travel with peace of mind.

What to do if you're travelling internationally

If you're travelling internationally with human cremains on a JetBlue flight, you must know the specific documents required to bring human cremains into your destination country. Do your research before booking your travel to avoid difficulties at customs.

• Ensure you have the necessary documentation, such as a certified copy of the death certificate and an original letter from the funeral director or crematorium. Some countries may have additional requirements, so it is essential to check with the relevant authorities.
• Use a lightweight urn made of heavy cardboard, wood, or plastic. TSA agents will screen the urn and its contents, so choose a material that allows for clear viewing using an X-ray machine.
• Keep the cremains in a sealed plastic bag inside the urn to protect against damage during transit.
• Do not open the urn during travel, as it can cause discomfort to other passengers and create a messy situation.
• Place the urn inside a bag or box to avoid unwanted attention from other passengers.
• Inform the JetBlue employee at the ticket counter that you are travelling with cremains and provide the required documentation.
• Be prepared for additional screening or questions from TSA officers. Remain cooperative and respectful throughout the process.
• If you are connecting to another airline for your international flight, check their policies on travelling with cremains, as they may differ from JetBlue's policies.
• In some cases, it may be advisable to ship the cremains separately to your destination, especially if you are travelling to a country with strict regulations.
• Always check the most up-to-date information from the relevant embassies or consulates of the countries you are travelling to and transiting through.

Tips for flying with cremains

• Check your airline's policy in advance. Different airlines have different policies regarding flying with cremains. For example, as of June 2015, Southwest only allows cremains in carry-on luggage. JetBlue requires certain documentation, including a certified copy of the death certificate and an original form or letter from the funeral director or crematorium.
• Use a lightweight, TSA-approved urn, made from materials such as cardboard, wood, or plastic. Avoid metal, ceramic, or lead-lined containers. The urn should be able to fit in the overhead storage compartment or under the seat.
• Place the cremains in a plastic bag inside the urn to protect against damage or spillage during the flight.
• Keep the urn closed and sealed during the flight. TSA screeners will not open a cremation urn, even if you request them to do so.
• Carry the required documentation, such as a death certificate and a certificate of cremation. This is especially important when flying internationally, as different countries may have their own specific requirements. Consult a licensed funeral director or the relevant embassy/consulate for guidance.
• Consider using a temporary urn during your travels, especially if your permanent urn is made from a fragile or prohibited material.
• Give yourself extra time to get through security, in case there are any issues or delays due to screening the cremains.
• Consider mailing the cremains instead of carrying them on the plane. In the US, the US Postal Service offers a safe and legal way to ship cremated ashes domestically and internationally.

Alternatives to flying with cremains

If you are uncomfortable flying with your loved one's cremains, there are several alternatives you can consider:

Shipping Services

You may want to look into shipping the cremains with a postal service like the USPS, which offers Priority Mail Express® Service with tracking. This option may be less expensive and easier on your mental health. However, it's important to note that UPS and FedEx will not knowingly accept cremated remains for shipment.

Memorial Jewellery

If you want to keep your loved one's cremains close, you can consider memorial jewellery, such as a memorial diamond from a service like Eterneva. This way, you can have your loved one close while you fly, and you won't have to worry about being stopped by the TSA.

Scattering Services

If you plan to scatter the cremains, you may be able to utilise scattering services offered by some crematoriums or funeral homes. They may be able to scatter the cremains on your behalf, saving you the trouble of travelling with them.

Road Trip

If feasible, consider driving to your destination instead of flying. This way, you can have more control over the transportation of the cremains and avoid the stress of navigating airport security and TSA regulations.

Interment Services

If the cremains are intended for interment in a mausoleum or cemetery, you may be able to arrange for a local funeral home or crematorium to handle the transportation and interment. This option can relieve you of the burden of travelling with the cremains yourself.

Remember, the decision to fly with cremains is a personal one, and it's understandable if you prefer not to. These alternatives can provide you with options to fulfil your loved one's final wishes while considering your comfort and peace of mind.

Frequently asked questions