'Flying home’ is written in the hope that it will make the planning of journeys abroad easier for everyone. The practical anxieties of health professionals can act as barriers to people flying at the end of life, which can cause significant delays. Travelling is exhausting, even for those who are fit and well, and it can be stressful emotionally and physically for those in the advanced stages of illness.

This guide aims to allay many of those anxieties and ensure that stresses are minimised. It cannot cover all illnesses, complications, airlines and countries but the combination of general guidance, specific resources and checklists should answer most questions. It also includes repatriation information for family and friends wishing to bring their loved one's body or ashes home.

Regulations are subject to change, so always check with airlines and relevant organisations for the latest updates. The key audience for this publication is health professionals but patients and the public may also find it useful.