A Beautiful Farewell Among the Clouds
When a loved one is cremated, the question that often follows is: what now? For those who lived boldly, peacefully, or simply outside the box, a traditional urn or burial may not feel right. Aerial ash scattering offers a powerful alternative—a symbolic release from thousands of feet above, where ashes are carried by the wind into the open sky.
Whether you’re exploring memorial options for a loved one, planning ahead for yourself, or just curious about this one-of-a-kind tribute, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about aerial ash scattering.
What Is Aerial Ash Scattering?
Aerial ash scattering is the release of cremated remains from an aircraft—usually a small plane or skydive—allowing the ashes to disperse naturally through the air. At AshDive, our memorials are performed during solo skydives from over 10,000 feet, offering a truly peaceful and unforgettable farewell.
Unlike traditional ash scattering on land or sea, an aerial release carries powerful symbolism: freedom, elevation, transcendence, and letting go.
Why Choose This Type of Memorial?
Aerial ash scattering isn’t just about spectacle—it’s about meaning. It’s a ceremony of movement, of transformation. Here’s why families choose it:
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Symbolic Freedom – Letting go into the wind from above the earth mirrors emotional release.
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Adventure and Spirit – Honors the bold, the free, the ones who loved flight, travel, or the outdoors.
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Uniqueness – It’s a memorial unlike any other, deeply personal and deeply moving.
How the Process Works
1. Booking & Consultation
You’ll start with a consultation—email or phone—to talk about your loved one, your wishes, and any custom requests. We offer ceremonies for both people and pets, and we’re happy to answer any questions upfront.
2. Shipping the Ashes
We provide secure instructions for mailing cremated remains. You can also deliver them in person if you're local to Michigan.
3. Ceremony Planning
You’ll choose the date range, any preferred location options, and whether you'd like a video or certificate. Our team handles all permitting, weather checks, and aircraft scheduling.
4. The Memorial Skydive
On the day of the ceremony, your loved one’s ashes are respectfully carried and released during freefall. The result is quiet, beautiful, and awe-inspiring. Families are welcome to view from the ground nearby, if desired.
5. Post-Ceremony
We return any containers used, along with a digital video and certificate. The location, date, and your loved one’s name are all documented for your memory.
Is It Legal to Scatter Ashes from the Sky?
Yes, aerial scattering is legal in the United States, but there are rules:
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The ashes must be fully processed (no recognizable bone fragments)
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You must avoid dropping urns or non-biodegradable containers
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The release must occur above unpopulated areas or bodies of water
We follow all FAA and EPA guidelines, and we take care of the paperwork so you don’t have to.
Where Can the Ceremony Take Place?
AshDive performs aerial memorials primarily over Southern Michigan, near the Irish Hills region—an area filled with natural beauty, lakes, and open skies. If you're looking for a destination scattering, we can also travel anywhere in the U.S. with advance planning and a deposit.
What’s Included in Our Service
Each AshDive ceremony includes:
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A personalized ash scattering during solo skydive
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Video recording of the jump and release
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Digital certificate of the ceremony
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Optional location tracking/map
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Return of any provided containers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I attend the jump?
Yes—while you can’t be in the plane, many families view the release from the ground. In some cases, we may be able to arrange for you to ride along, pending pilot approval.
Is this service only for people?
Not at all. We also offer dedicated pet ash scattering memorials—because every best friend deserves a beautiful goodbye.
How long does it take?
From booking to final video delivery, most ceremonies are completed within 2–3 weeks. Expedited options are available.
What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
We only fly in safe, respectful conditions. If the weather delays your ceremony, we’ll reschedule immediately—your peace of mind matters.
Ready to Honor Your Loved One in the Sky?
Ash scattering isn’t just a way to say goodbye—it’s a way to say something powerful about the life that was lived. Aerial memorials are peaceful, symbolic, and deeply moving.
If you’re ready to plan an ash scattering ceremony or just want to learn more, we’d be honored to help.
👉 Contact us today to begin planning your skyward farewell.