You can fly with cremated remains from Orlando International Airport (MCO) and other U.S. airports. The key is a container that can pass through airport X-ray screening.
TSA rules in brief
- The Transportation Security Administration allows cremated remains in carry-on bags.
- The container must be able to pass through the X-ray machine. TSA recommends a container made of a lighter material such as wood, plastic or cardboard. Metal, stone and ceramic urns may not produce a clear image.
- If the officer cannot clear the container, it will not be allowed through the checkpoint.
- Out of respect, TSA officers will not open the container, even if you ask them to.
Check the current guidance on the TSA website before you travel.
Checked baggage
Some airlines allow cremated remains in checked baggage and some do not. Contact your airline before booking. Carry-on is usually the safer choice, since the remains stay with you.
Documents to carry
- A copy of the death certificate
- The certificate of cremation from the crematory
- For international travel, check the destination country’s requirements with its consulate well in advance; some require specific documents or translations.
Choosing a travel container
Many families use a temporary plastic container from the funeral home or a lightweight “TSA-friendly” urn, and move the remains to a permanent urn at home. See cremation urn sizes.
Shipping instead of flying
The U.S. Postal Service is the only carrier in the United States that ships cremated remains, using Priority Mail Express with specific packaging and labeling. Funeral homes can help.