Efforts aim to standardize air transport for human remains

Joe Petrie Editor & Chief | AviationPros

By Sky Industry News

Jun 25, 2024

An international effort is underway to improve the air transportation of human remains. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Fédération Internationale des Associations de Thanatologues (FIAT-IFTA), a global funeral operators' federation, are collaborating on this initiative.

IATA represents 336 airlines, accounting for over 80% of global air traffic. Through its online hub, it offers an on-demand webinar with insights from both IATA and FIAT-IFTA leaders. This collaboration aims to ensure dignified and safe transport for deceased individuals.

Marek Cichewicz, president of FIAT-IFTA, emphasized the importance of repatriation: "At the moment, this body, this deceased, is more important than gold or diamonds." He added that they are seeking solutions to improve these processes.

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The Compassionate Transportation Manual (CTM), now in its fourth edition, is a key tool developed by IATA to guide stakeholders like funeral home operators and airlines in handling human remains. Lucy Exell from IATA highlighted that the manual emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic's impact: “There was no single source document available...that could provide harmonized guidance.”

To develop CTM, IATA worked with WHO and ICAO for guidance on transporting COVID-19-related human remains. They also collaborated with entities such as MacKinnon and Bowes Ltd., Hygeco, FSAC, and Albin International Repatriation.

Andre Majeres of IATA stressed the importance of standardization: “We strive to establish the best standards...available for all.” He explained that consistent processes prevent surprises in cargo handling.

Since its inception, CTM has expanded to cover sustainable practices and electronic data exchange among other topics. Recently launched is IATA’s Compassionate Transportation LIVE virtual course aimed at industry stakeholders.

Rebecca Kanable joined Endeavor Business Media's aviation group in 2021 and serves as Assistant Editor at Ground Support Worldwide.