TUI has confirmed the rules for passengers who wish to take a loved one's ashes on a flight to scatter them abroad. The clarification came after a passenger asked on the TUI UK Official Customer Service – Help and Advice Facebook page about bringing a memory pebble containing her husband's ashes in her hand luggage.
What TUI requires
Responding on behalf of TUI, a staff member named Heul said: "You're welcome to bring ashes with you when you're travelling on a TUI flight and we always want to make sure you have a smooth journey as possible." Heul added that passengers must present the death certificate at check-in and possibly again at customs. Customs may request to inspect the ashes, so TUI recommends placing them in a non-metallic, sealable container to ensure clear scanning during security screening. During take-off and landing, the ashes must be securely stored under the seat in front or in the overhead compartment.
Growing trend for scattering ashes abroad
Research by comparison site MoneySuperMarket found that four in 10 people want to have their ashes scattered abroad. Kara Gammell, life insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: "Our research finds that many are moving away from traditional services in favour of simpler, more personal alternatives – like scattering ashes. The challenge is ensuring those wishes can be carried out without leaving loved ones in financial difficulty." She noted that travel expenses, permits and local regulations can add hundreds or thousands of pounds to the final bill.
Country-specific rules and advice
Some countries impose strict rules or bans. Spain prohibits scattering ashes in public places, including the sea. In the United States, ashes must be taken at least three nautical miles offshore. Iceland requires both a permit and formal contact with the local district commissioner. According to Scattering Ashes, it is recommended to check with the airline for its rules, as many differ, as do those of different countries. The organisation advises: "Different countries have their own rules about the import and export of human ashes. Before you go, you should: check with the embassy or consulate of your destination country for their current requirements; notify customs if required – this can vary by country and is not usually necessary; confirm whether you need a translation of the documents." It adds: "Don’t just turn up at the departure gate and hope for the best, whilst you may be fine as most country’s are quite respectful the stress isn’t worth it."
