Why Ash Scattering Pricing Varies
When families begin planning an ash scattering ceremony, one of the first questions is: “How much does it cost?” The answer depends on the type of service, location, and any personalization you add.
Whether you’re honoring a loved one or a beloved pet, understanding pricing ensures you get a transparent, meaningful farewell—without hidden costs.
Average Costs for Different Ceremony Types
Below is a breakdown of the most common ash scattering services, based on 2025 industry averages and actual provider pricing.
| Ceremony Type | Average Price Range | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Aerial Ash Scattering (Human) | $500 | Private flight, respectful scattering, certificate, optional video |
| Pet Ash Scattering (Aerial) | $250 | Licensed skydiver or pilot, video proof, certificate |
| Destination Aerial Memorials | $800 – $2,000+ | Travel, custom location requests, private coordination |
| Mail-In Ash Scattering | $250 - $500 | Secure shipping, ash handling, basic certificate |
| Group/Shared Flights | $400 - $1,000 | Scheduled flight with multiple scatterings (separate releases) |
| Private Charter Flights | $1,500 – $4,000+ | Exclusive aircraft, family attendance, custom itinerary |
💡 Pro Tip: Some providers, like AshDive, include a video recording of the release, which can save you $100–$250 compared to add-on rates from other providers.
Pet Ash Scattering Pricing (Detailed Breakdown)
Pet memorials are growing in popularity. Families often want a more personalized experience than traditional pet cremation services offer.
| Service Type | Average Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Pet Aerial Ceremony | $250 – $350 | Includes video and certificate in most cases |
| Multi-Pet Package | $350 – $500 | For families with more than one pet |
| Destination Pet Scattering | $500 – $1,000+ | For custom locations (beach, mountain ranges, etc.) |
| Mail-In Pet Ash Scattering | $250 | Ideal if you cannot attend in person |
What’s Included in Most Packages
While pricing varies, reputable providers should always offer:
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Respectful handling of remains
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Location certificate with GPS coordinates
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Video or photo proof (either included or optional)
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Legal compliance for airspace and environmental regulations
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Compassionate communication
Factors That Affect Cost
1. Location
Remote or scenic locations (e.g., mountains, coastal areas) often require extra flight time or travel fees.
Example: Scattering over the Great Lakes may cost $150–$300 more than a local inland flight.
2. Type of Aircraft
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Shared or scheduled flights cost less.
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Private charter or custom locations add a premium.
3. Add-Ons
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Video recording: Included
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Family attendance: $200–$500 for an additional passenger (if permitted)
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Keepsakes (vials, pendants): Included
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Expedited scheduling: $50–$100 (if you need a specific date)
4. Pet vs. Human Ceremonies
Pet ceremonies are usually slightly less expensive, but travel-based destination scatterings cost about the same.
How AshDive Pricing Compares
Unlike many providers, Aerial Ash Scattering:
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Includes video at no extra cost
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Offers nationwide mail-in options
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Provides transparent, flat-rate pricing
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Allows location customization upon request
This combination means families pay one fair price without surprise fees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ash Scattering Pricing
Do pet memorials cost less than human memorials?
Generally, yes—but destination ceremonies are priced similarly regardless of whether the ashes belong to a person or pet.
Can I attend the ceremony?
For private flights, yes. Expect to pay $200–$500 extra for passenger attendance, depending on the provider.
Are there hidden costs I should know about?
Reputable providers should disclose everything up front. Beware of “base rates” that exclude essentials like certificates or video.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Ceremony for Your Budget
Ash scattering isn’t about cost—it’s about meaning. But knowing what to expect can help you choose a provider who is honest, compassionate, and transparent.
If you want a fair, all-inclusive price (video included, no hidden fees), explore AshDive’s memorial services for both human and pet ceremonies.