When a loved one passes away away from home, families often choose air transportation to bring the deceased to the final destination. However, one common question arises: Who can legally book air cargo for dead body transportation?

In India, airlines allow the booking through an eligible family member or an authorized representative after verifying the required documents. Therefore, understanding the legal process helps families complete transportation without delays.

This guide explains who can book the cargo, required documents, authorization rules, and how funeral service providers coordinate the entire process.

Who Is Eligible to Book Air Cargo?

Airlines generally accept bookings from individuals who have a legal relationship with the deceased or proper authorization.

Family Members

The following relatives can usually complete the booking process:

• Spouse

• Son or daughter

• Parent

• Brother or sister

• Legal guardian

The applicant must provide valid identity proof during verification.

Authorized Representative

If family members cannot travel, they may authorize a funeral service provider or another responsible person to coordinate the booking and documentation.

This option is especially helpful for interstate or emergency transportation.

Documents Required for Booking

Proper documentation is essential before airlines accept human remains.

Essential Documents

• Medical Cause of Death Certificate

• Death Certificate

• Embalming Certificate

• Coffin Sealing Certificate

• Identity proof of the deceased

• Identity proof of the applicant

• Authorization letter when applicable

• Airline cargo booking documents

Keeping originals and photocopies ready speeds up airport clearance.

Can a Funeral Service Provider Book the Cargo?

Yes. Professional funeral service providers regularly coordinate airline cargo bookings on behalf of families.

Their responsibilities usually include:

• Hospital coordination

• Embalming arrangement

• Coffin preparation

• Airline cargo reservation

• Airport documentation

• Destination coordination

As a result, families receive complete logistical support during a difficult time.

Is an Authorization Letter Necessary?

An authorization letter is generally required when someone other than the immediate family completes the booking process.

The letter should include:

• Name of the deceased

• Name of the authorized person

• Relationship or authorization details

• Applicant’s signature

• Contact information

Airlines may request additional identification depending on the situation.

Step-by-Step Booking Process

Following the correct sequence helps prevent delays.

Step 1: Hospital Confirmation

The hospital issues the Medical Cause of Death Certificate after confirming the death.

Step 2: Collect Documents

Gather all medical certificates and identity documents before contacting the airline.

Step 3: Complete Embalming

Most domestic and international airlines require embalming before transportation.

Step 4: Prepare the Coffin

The body is placed inside an airline-approved sealed coffin with proper identification.

Step 5: Airline Cargo Reservation

The eligible applicant or authorized provider books cargo space through the airline’s cargo department.

Step 6: Airport Clearance

Cargo officials verify every document before accepting the coffin for transportation.

This structured process ensures respectful and legally compliant transportation.