Families often ask, “What is the dead body transport by air cost in India?” This question usually arises during one of the most difficult times in life, when a loved one passes away far from home. Air transportation becomes the fastest and most reliable way to ensure that the deceased reaches their hometown for the last rites.
Many people also wonder, “Is a dead body allowed in flight?” The answer is yes. All major airlines in India, including Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, and SpiceJet, permit the transportation of human remains by air cargo. However, there are specific procedures, documentation requirements, and costs involved.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything related to the cost of dead body transport by air in India—including airline charges, state-to-state transfer expenses, international repatriation, and additional costs you should be aware of.
What is the Cost of Dead Body Transport by Air in India?
The dead body transport by air cost in India generally ranges between Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 55,000, depending on distance, airline, and additional services. Families should also be prepared for multiple cost components, not just the flight charges.
Here’s a breakup of dead body charges in flight:
- Basic Transportation Fee: Rs. 12,000 – Rs. 30,000
- Documentation and Permits: Rs. 5,000 – Rs. 10,000
- Coffin or Casket: Rs. 5,000 – Rs. 10,000
- Embalming and Preparation: Rs. 5,000 – Rs. 10,000
- Airport Handling Charges: Rs. 2,000 – Rs. 5,000
- Courier for Documents: Rs. 1,000 – Rs. 2,000
On average, the total cost of dead body in flight comes to Rs. 22,000 – Rs. 55,000 for domestic transfers.
Dead Body Flight Booking Cost in India
Every airline has its own policy and pricing when it comes to dead body flight booking.
- Air India Dead Body Charges: Rs. 25,000 – Rs. 40,000
- IndiGo Dead Body Charges: Rs. 20,000 – Rs. 40,000
- Vistara Dead Body Charges: Rs. 25,000 – Rs. 40,000
- SpiceJet Dead Body Charges: Rs. 20,000 – Rs. 40,000
- Air Asia India Dead Body Charges: Rs. 18,000 – Rs. 35,000
- Go First Dead Body Charges: Rs. 20,000 – Rs. 35,000
Most airlines calculate costs based on weight, distance, and documentation fees. It’s important to check directly with the airline cargo department or book through a professional EMS provider like Save Life Care for smoother arrangements.
Dead Body Transportation Cost from One State to Another in India
If you’re wondering how to take a dead body in flight from one city to another, the charges again depend on distance, airline, and paperwork.
For example:
- Patna to Delhi: Rs. 25,000 – Rs. 35,000
- Mumbai to Bangalore: Rs. 30,000 – Rs. 40,000
- Kolkata to Hyderabad: Rs. 28,000 – Rs. 38,000
These figures include airline cargo booking, coffin, embalming, and airport handling. Families should also consider ambulance charges to and from the airport.
If you’re asking “how to carry dead body in flight”, remember it’s not booked like a passenger ticket. It must be done through the airline’s cargo division with proper documentation.
Factors That Influence Dead Body Transport by Air Cost
The dead body charges in flight vary because of multiple factors:
- Distance – Longer flights = higher charges.
- Weight of Coffin & Body – Airlines charge based on weight slabs.
- Choice of Airline – Some airlines are more affordable than others.
- Documentation Requirements – Urgent NOCs and embassy clearances may add costs.
- Additional Services – Freezer box, ambulance transfers, embalming.
Additional Costs You Should Be Aware Of
Apart from the basic dead body flight charges, families often face additional expenses:
- Ambulance charges to/from airport: Rs. 3,000 – Rs. 8,000
- Freezer Box rental: Rs. 1,500 – Rs. 3,000 per day
- Courier of documents: Rs. 1,000 – Rs. 2,000
- Urgent documentation fee: Depends on state regulations
Planning in advance with an EMS company ensures that there are no surprise costs at the last moment.
Cost of International Dead Body Transport by Air
For families abroad asking, “Is dead body allowed in flight internationally?”—yes, it is, but costs are much higher.
The international dead body transport by air cost usually ranges between Rs. 1.5 lakhs to Rs. 3 lakhs or more, depending on:
- Distance between countries
- Airline cargo charges
- Embassy documentation & NOCs
- Coffin & embalming standards (as per IATA guidelines)
For example, transporting a dead body from the Middle East to India costs around Rs. 1.5 to Rs. 2 lakhs, while from the US or Europe it may exceed Rs. 3 lakhs.
Tips to Save on Dead Body Flight Charges in India
- Book via EMS Providers – Companies like Save Life Care often have tie-ups with airlines, reducing costs.
- Choose the Right Airline – Compare prices; Air Asia or IndiGo may be more affordable than Vistara.
- Opt for Train/Road Transport for Shorter Distances – If possible, use train ambulance services for inter-state transfers, as they are cost-effective.
- Plan Documentation Early – Avoid last-minute urgent fees for permits and NOCs.
Conclusion
The dead body transport by air cost in India varies from Rs. 22,000 to Rs. 55,000 for domestic transfers and Rs. 1.5 to 3 lakhs for international repatriation. While the costs may feel overwhelming, understanding the breakup helps families plan better.
At Save Life Care, we ensure complete transparency in dead body flight charges—from documentation to coffin provision and airport handling. Our goal is to provide families with peace of mind during difficult times, ensuring dignity and respect in every step of the journey.
