After a deceased person arrives at the destination airport through air cargo, families often feel uncertain about the next steps. Fortunately, the release process follows a structured procedure. Airport cargo officials verify the documents, release the coffin to the authorized person, and then the body moves to its final destination through a hearse van or mortuary vehicle.

This guide explains what happens when a dead body reaches the destination airport, including cargo clearance, document verification, airport release, and transportation to the funeral location.

What Happens Immediately After Landing?

Human remains do not arrive at the passenger terminal. Instead, the coffin is transferred directly to the airline’s cargo terminal.

The cargo team safely unloads the coffin and places it inside the designated cargo holding area until document verification begins.

The arrival process includes:

• Aircraft unloading

• Transfer to cargo warehouse

• Safe storage

• Cargo documentation review

• Release preparation

Therefore, families should report to the cargo office rather than the passenger arrival area.

Who Can Collect the Body?

Only an authorized family member or an approved representative can receive the body after completing verification.

Eligible persons include:

• Spouse

• Son or daughter

• Parent

• Sibling

• Authorized funeral service provider

The receiving person must carry valid identity proof.

Documents Required at the Destination Airport

Airport officials verify the documents before releasing the coffin.

Required documents

• Death Certificate

• Medical Cause of Death Certificate

• Embalming Certificate

• Coffin Sealing Certificate

• Applicant’s identity proof

• Air Cargo Consignment Details

• Authorization letter if applicable

Keeping originals and photocopies ready helps speed up the release process.

Cargo Clearance Process

After document verification, the airline cargo department begins the official release procedure.

Step 1: Identity Verification

The receiving person submits government identification and cargo reference details.

Step 2: Cargo Documentation Check

Airport staff verify the embalming certificate, coffin sealing certificate, and airway cargo documents.

Step 3: Coffin Release

Once verification is complete, the coffin is officially released to the authorized recipient.

Step 4: Hearse Van Transfer

The body is carefully transferred into a hearse van or mortuary vehicle for transportation to the residence, mortuary, or cremation ground.

This organized workflow ensures respectful handling throughout the process.