If it was your loved one's final wishes that their ashes are scattered at a certain spot, what can you do when that spot is so far away that it requires a flight? Although it might feel odd to jump on a plane with your loved one's ashes, this is actually fairly straightforward to achieve with the right preparation. 

Consider Having the Ashes Delivered

You want to honor your loved one's final request, but it might not be necessary to transport their ashes yourself. Cremation services generally end when you're presented with the ashes, but the crematory might be able to arrange secure delivery of the ashes to the location of the scattering. Check to see if they offer this service, but it might be possible for you to fly alone, and have the ashes delivered separately. 

Check That It's Permitted

When you decide to fly with the ashes, you need to confirm that your chosen airline permits this. Most do when the ashes are properly secured, but you can't automatically assume that it will be allowed. There might be additional complications if you're traveling internationally, and you must also confirm that you will be allowed to bring the ashes to your final destination. 

A Suitable Urn for Transport

Once you've confirmed that your ashes can be brought onto the plane, you need to be sure that they're ready to fly. Request that the crematory provides you with the ashes in a flight-ready urn. Yes, these actually exist, and they meet the TSA regulations for the transportation of ashes. 

The Weight of the Urn

The flight ready urn should be made of plastic. This is a good idea because it's strong and lightweight. The weight of the urn becomes important when you factor in the airline's weight restrictions for your luggage, along with the fact that you'll be carrying it. Plastic is also compatible with any x-rays or scans that your possessions will be subjected to, and this cannot be said of all the different urns on offer.

Keep the Ashes with You

You should pack the ashes in your carry-on luggage. It's unlikely that the airline would lose your bags, but it would be extremely upsetting if they were to lose your loved one's ashes. 

With some advance planning, you can honor your loved one's final wishes. It won't be a typical trip, but it will be a memorable one. For more information, contact the American Cremation Society (Ridgemoor Chapels).

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