Grieving son is furious after TSA opens his mother’s urn and tests her ASHES during airport security check
A PASSENGER travelling with his mother’s ashes was left furious after airport security opened the urn before testing the contents. Daniel Mehler was travelling through Denver Airport to Aspen to spread his mother’s ashes when Transport Security Administration (TSA) agents proceeded to open the urn and test the contents. His brother, David, wrote on Facebook: […]
A PASSENGER travelling with his mother’s ashes was left furious after airport security opened the urn before testing the contents.
Daniel Mehler was travelling through Denver Airport to Aspen to spread his mother’s ashes when Transport Security Administration (TSA) agents proceeded to open the urn and test the contents.
His brother, David, wrote on Facebook: “Hey Transportation Security Administration, thanks for desecrating my mom’s (Rexanne Bishop) remains this morning in the Denver international airport while my TSA Pre-Check approved brother (Daniel Mehler) travels to Aspen to spread her ashes!
“Really helps the grieving process when you see someone open the urn, tear open the interior bag, and test human remains.”
He also explained how his brother did not face any problems when travelling through different airports: “For the record, my brother went through Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) AND San Antonio International Airport with her in this trip without incident.
“Both of those TSA agents inspected the urn and scanned it but handled the situation with tact and respect. This is totally unacceptable!!!!”
Social media users were also shocked by how the situation was handled by TSA agents.
One person wrote: “No. Way. I’m so sorry (and livid) that this happened!”
Another commented: “So so sorry you had to deal with that!!”
Some said the staff should face action: “I’m sorry for this. That sorry piece should be fired!”
According to the TSA website, ashes are allowed to travel in hand luggage, but should not be opened.
It states on the website: “Out of respect for the deceased, TSA officers will not open a container, even if requested by the passenger.”
A TSA spokesperson told Sun Online Travel: “TSA recognises the importance of screening human remains with utmost respect and dignity.
“After reviewing video footage of the screening of these crematory remains, TSA determined that the correct protocols were not followed.
“It is TSA policy that under no circumstance should a crematory container be opened. TSA extends our sincere apology and deepest condolences to Mr. Mehler.”
What are the rules for travelling with urns in the UK?
Travelling with a loved one’s ashes in an urn is allowed with them permitted in hand luggage.
However, airports do advise that they are made of a material which can be x-rayed at security.
According to Heathrow Airport: “We recommend the urn for the ashes is made of a material that can be x-ray screened – lead-lined containers for example cannot be processed through the x-ray.
“Where this isn’t possible, the ashes may be subject to additional security measures as we are obliged to ensure that all hand luggage meets UK security requirements.”
Gatwick Airport also advises to take documentation: “In order to comply with regulations, please carry all necessary documentation, including a Certificate of Death issued by an authority from the country of departure.”
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