Understanding Repatriation of Mortal Remains at Schiphol Mortuary
Ben Vos, a mortuary coordinator at Schiphol Mortuary, starts his day at 5 a.m. with a call from air traffic control. A passenger has died on a flight from Asia to the Netherlands. This call marks the beginning of a process that Vos manages hundreds of times a year: the repatriation of mortal remains, or RMR. This article explores the important work done at Schiphol Mortuary and the impact it has on families grieving abroad.
The Role of Schiphol Mortuary in RMR
Schiphol Mortuary is a specialized facility that focuses on post-mortem care for individuals who pass away abroad or on flights. Located just outside the main airport area, it is designed to ensure privacy and respect for the deceased. The facility handles the complex logistics of RMR with care and expertise.
How RMR Works at Schiphol Mortuary
Upon the arrival of a deceased passenger, Vos and a representative from the Koninklijke Marechaussee, the Dutch border control agency, board the aircraft after passengers disembark. They, along with the coroner, evaluate the cause of death and carefully place the deceased into a body bag. This process is conducted discreetly to minimize public attention.
Supporting Families During Grief
One of the primary responsibilities of Vos and his team is to support grieving families. They understand the shock and sadness that comes with losing a loved one while traveling. The mortuary staff is trained to handle these sensitive situations with compassion and respect.
Facilities and Operations at Schiphol Mortuary
Schiphol Mortuary, known as MOS, was established in 1997 as the first full-service mortuary at an airport in Europe. The facility was relocated in 2017 to enhance its operations and is equipped with essential features like:
Cold storage for up to 36 bodies
An embalming room
A viewing room with a circular skylight
An area for washing bodies before burial, which is important for certain cultures and religions
Logistics of Handling Mortal Remains
The design of the mortuary allows for quick transport of deceased individuals from the aircraft to the facility. This streamlined process helps maintain dignity and respect throughout RMR. The facility can even expand its capacity to handle up to 400 bodies during crises.
Addressing Cultural and Religious Needs
Vos and his team are knowledgeable about different mourning rituals and customs. They work closely with various religious leaders to ensure that families can honor their loved ones in culturally appropriate ways. For example, they may arrange for separate spaces for men and women during ceremonies as per some religious beliefs.
The Increasing Need for RMR Services
Every year, Schiphol Mortuary oversees around 2,500 repatriations. This number includes both Dutch citizens who die abroad and foreign nationals who pass away in the Netherlands. Recent statistics show a rise in the number of Dutch travelers who die overseas, highlighting the importance of RMR services.
Travel Patterns Affecting RMR
Seasonal patterns also affect the number of cases handled by the mortuary. For instance, winter is a particularly busy time due to ski trips, while many older Dutch citizens travel to warmer destinations like Spain and Portugal.
Challenges and Costs of Repatriation
While RMR is crucial, it can also be costly. The expenses for repatriation can range from 5,000 to 10,000 euros. Travelers are encouraged to have travel insurance that covers RMR, as this can alleviate some financial burdens on families.
Insurance Tips for Travelers
When purchasing travel insurance, it is essential to check if RMR is included in the policy. Travelers should also disclose any pre-existing medical conditions to avoid denied claims.
Looking Ahead: The Future of RMR Services
The process of transporting human remains across borders can be complex due to varying regulations. The International Air Transport Association provides guidelines to ensure safe and respectful transport. As air travel continues to grow, the need for RMR services like those at Schiphol Mortuary will remain vital.
Ben Vos believes that supporting families during their most difficult times is the most rewarding part of his job. “When everything’s done well, that’s the satisfaction,” he reflects. The work at Schiphol Mortuary is not just about logistics; it is about compassion, respect, and providing a dignified farewell to those who have passed.
