Okay seasoned travelers, I have a tough one. I want to take my mother's ashes to France (from Florida) and then spread them over the Loire Valley from a balloon this coming summer. Number one: may I carry them on the plane myself? Two: do I need special paperwork or permission? Three: which balloon company and where? I'll need three balloons (for people, not ashes!). Thank you all in advance! Cindy Dawson
Sorry for your loss, and I admire your thoughtful idea to honor your mom. I'd suggest contacting a funeral home and the airline and make sure you can actually do what you want to. Also try google - I found these by typing "Transporting human ashes by airline" http://www.evrmemories.com/Cremation-Urn-TSA-transporting-s/188.htm http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/editorial_1296.shtm
These two links suggest that you shouldn't have legal difficulties scattering the ashes outdoors in France, as long as you keep away from rivers or public roads. http://paris.angloinfo.com/countries/france/death.asp http://www.afif.asso.fr/english/cremation.htm#disposition