B737-800
Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Distraction; Situational Awareness
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Hazardous Material Violation
General Flight Cancelled / Delayed
Company Policy; Human Factors
Upon first contact with the push crew she informed us that we had a HR [Human Remains] in the rear baggage compartment that 'reeked of raw flesh and is a horrible smell'. I notified the CA [Captain]. He then coordinated with several ramp/load/gate managers to resolve the issue. I was in my manuals trying to find guidance. Cargo Procedures Manual chapter 'Packaging Requirements'. I also referenced chapter 'Incident Reporting'. From there the CA determined it would not be smart nor safe to carry the HR in its current condition. Ramp manager and load manager agreed and HR was removed. The compartment had several other customer bags as well as child strollers. After the HR was removed the flight continued as planned. I am not familiar with embalming procedures. I feel the push/load crew notifying us was the correct thing to do. No suggestions.
A 737 pilot was advised that human remains aboard the aircraft were not suitable for transport; due to a significant odor emanating from the baggage compartment.