Air Travel and Transportation of Urns

In 2004, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) implemented a new procedure affecting those passengers attempting to transport a crematory container on an airline as carry-on baggage. You are still allowed to carry-on a crematory container, but it MUST pass through the X-ray machine. If the container is made of a material that generates an opaque image and prevents the security screener from clearly being able to see what is inside, then the container will not be allowed through the security checkpoint. In respect for the deceased, under NO circumstance will a screener open the container, even if the customer requests that this be done.

If the X-ray image is opaque, then the next option is to transport the remains as checked baggage. The crematory container will undergo testing for explosive devices and, if cleared, will be permitted as checked baggage. So please check with your carrier.

TSA understands that passengers carrying crematory containers have likely just experienced an emotional time in their lives because of the loss of a loved one. We are working closely with the funeral homes and cemeteries that we deal with to ensure that this message is communicated to these people so that they understand what to expect at the airport and can prepare accordingly.

One option is to purchase urns that don’t contain metal (e.g. wood, plastic, or marble)since they are not likely to produce an opaque image and can thus be cleared to bring into the cabin of the aircraft as a carry-on. Passengers traveling with crematory containers are encouraged to arrive earlier at the airport to allow for time proper screening.

We encourage you to check the latest information at www.tsa.gov