The Compassionate Transportation Manual (CTM) consolidates the requirements for the airline acceptance and transport of human remains for IATA member airlines and lists the international standards for the documentation. This manual contains the guidance needed for funeral operators, airlines and freight forwarders on how to prepare, ship and handle this special cargo.

What's inside the CTM

  • Up-to-date government requirements pertaining to the transport of human remains
  • Requirements on packing, handling, marking and labeling
  • Information on the necessary documentation needed when transporting human remains
  • Special shipping guidelines for infectious human remains
  • Guidelines for the air transportation of human remains in reference to the Industry Master Operating Plan (MOP) and IATA CSC Recommended Practice 1683

Still not sure if the CTM is for you? Download the table of contents

 

Stay up-to-date

Significant Changes to the 6th edition (2026) of the IATA Compassionate Transportation Manual (CTM) include:

  • New – Aviation Emergency Services information and Appendix L: IATA Training Task Function Matrix
  • Revalidated Packing, Sustainability, Cultural and Security information
  • Updated State & Operator information
  • Updated CTM checklist, aimed to facilitate activities and mitigate any potential claims
  • The XLS now contains the Checklist in English, French, Spanish and Chinese.