In most cases, aerated movement of human remains is a sad and quite sensitive activity where the corpse of a deceased is conveyed to the next destination through air transport. In cases where the body is returned to the country of origin or taken to another destination for the funeral, great care and keenness have to be taken at each time to avoid mishaps. However, errors made during this process may cause a slowdown of the process thereby incurring extra costs or even legal consequences. Hence, Heaven Gate is here to enlighten you on the common mistakes that should not be made when arranging body transportation by air.
Lack of Appropriated Documentation
The most important process of body transportation by air is paperwork. Absence of correct or required documents can lead to a very long wait or even refusal of transport. Essential documents include:
- Death Certificate: It should be certified and translated if that is necessary in the country of destination.
- Embalming Certificate: Airlines and the receiving authorities require embalming to avoid sparks of illness transmission.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): Local authority issued, this enables the movement of human remains.
- Airline Clearance: Some airlines have restrictions that give an opportunity to transport only bodies after notifying them in advance and receiving the right permit.
- Tip: Review the regulations of the countries from both origin and destination to make sure that all the papers are according to their law.
The Failure to Grasp Airlines Policies
All airlines also have their code in dealing with the transport of human remains. Misunderstandings made include failing to check the airline’s processes before booking a flight or believing that not all airlines provide this option. Some require:
- These include specific packaging or caskets.
- Reservation can also be made its mark in their cargo system.
- The participation of a professional certified funeral service provider.
Applying for these criteria will avoid contract delays and cancellations or extra charges. Before making any arrangements, always contact the airline directly to enquire from them on the requirements that they have in place.
Cultural and Religious Sensitivity
Each country has different cultural and or religious beliefs concerning human remains, and ignorance of such practices can be very uncomfortable to the relatives of the deceased. For example:
- One culture insists that a body should be moved within a day, a move that has prompted organizations to have well-developed transport networks that help transport the bodies of the deceased as soon as possible.
- Some religions may be against the process of embalming or cremation of the deceased.
- Clothing, publications, prayer books, or sacred cloth may require being carried with the remains during the process.
It is important to note that these needs form the basis of planning in air transport.
Overlooking the Importance of Proper Embalming and Packaging
Inadequate or poor method of preservation and packaging creates a health and safety hazard to the body during transportation, which may be a reason for not being accepted to be transported through an airport. Airlines often require:
- Water-tight and dust-tight caskets to avoid cross-contamination.
- An official release confirmed that the remains are safe for transport.
Moreover, international shipments may demand to be zinc-lined or hermetically sealed coffins. Engaging a professional funeral service provider helps them to meet these standards.
Underestimating Costs
Every human body transported by air entails various costs such as the cost of embalming, the cost of documentation, charges by the airline, and the cost of customs. One decision that is frequently made is not getting costs estimated accurately before work is started. More expenses which most of the time are unplanned may put a lot of pressure financially on the family.
Tip: Get a detailed price estimate from your service provider, to prevent being charged unfamiliar fees. Ask them whether they can bundle the services you might need
Neglecting Emotional Support Requirements
In the process of logistics arrangements for body transportation by air, families fail to observe their own emotions. It can be stressful to deal with documents, authorities, and airline requirements. Lacking support can magnify grief and anxiety.
Tip: One could consider giving out duties to a well-known funeral service provider and seek help from friends and relatives or even professional counselors at this time.
Conclusion
Repatriation of the remains of a dear one through the air and the process is sensitive and needs proper organization and consideration. These are some of the things that should be avoided so that the process of movement is dignified, and has minimal inconvenience to the families of the deceased so that they can concentrate on the burial and remembering of their loved one. It’s emotionally challenging running a business, so involving experts, particularly within the law and culture, must be embraced during the process a long time beforehand. If you are going through this process, Heaven Gate specializes in body transportation services with professionalism and honor to the bereaved family. To find out how we can help you in body transportation by air, contact us today.