Q&A :Funeral Repatriation Glossary


Every specialized line of business has its own terminology that requires accustomization to, Funeral Repatriation is no exception, below is a short glossary of terms essential in the repatriation of a deceased;

Air Tray  : The air tray is an outer container made of a wooden base and cardboard top, used to protect, and conceal the inner packaging(casket/coffin) and meets the handling requirements.

Cargo Agent : A person or organization authorized by an airline to receive shipments, execute Air Waybills, and collect charges. An IATA Cargo Agent is one that is recognized by IATA as having met its requirements for an IATA registered Cargo Agent.

Caskets : A container in which human remains are buried, cremated, or transported. Rectangular and constructed of wood or metal.

Coffin   : A container in which human remains are buried, cremated, or transported. A coffin is six sided and tapered at the shoulder, typically made of wood.

Combination Unit : A combination (“combo”) casket and air tray unit is required when remains are transported without a standard casket.

Source :IATA Compassionate Transport Manual 2022