Scattering Ashes by Airplane: Rules, Process and Costs

Scattering ashes from a small plane is offered by private pilots and scattering services across the US. The federal aviation rule that applies most directly is 14 CFR 91.15, which bars a pilot from dropping an object that creates a hazard to people or property unless reasonable precautions are taken. Providers generally release only the ashes and keep the container on board. Over the ocean, EPA rules also apply, and national parks require permission.

Is it legal to scatter ashes from an airplane?

Generally yes, but several rules can apply at once, depending on where the ashes will land.

• Aviation. 14 CFR 91.15 says a pilot in command may not allow any object to be dropped that creates a hazard to persons or property, and it does not prohibit dropping an object if reasonable precautions are taken. Providers typically release only the ashes, away from people and property, and do not drop the container or other solid items.
• Altitude and distance. 14 CFR 91.119 sets minimum altitudes. Over congested areas that is 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within 2,000 feet of the aircraft. Elsewhere it is generally 500 feet above the surface, and over open water or sparsely populated areas, no closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle or structure. A low pass over a group on a beach may not be allowed.
• Land. You need permission from whoever owns or manages the area below. Our guide to scattering ashes anywhere explains who to ask.
• Drones. 14 CFR 107.23 covers small drones and prohibits dropping an object in a way that creates an undue hazard to persons or property.

State and local rules may also apply, and we did not review them. This is general information, not legal advice. A reputable provider knows the local rules and should tell you where it can and cannot fly.

What are the rules over the ocean?

The EPA's general permit for burial at sea of human remains covers people transporting remains from the US, and US-flagged vessels and aircraft. Under the EPA's rules:

• cremated remains must be scattered at least three nautical miles from land;
• you do not apply for a permit or pay a fee;
• the burial must be reported to the EPA within 30 days;
• decomposable flowers and wreaths are allowed, but non-decomposable items are not;
• the EPA says the general permit does not cover remains carried by balloons, rockets or similar devices, and pet ashes are not allowed under it.

Ask your provider whether it will file the report. See scattering ashes at sea and burial at sea.

Can you scatter from a plane over a national park?

Assume you need written permission. The federal park rules generally prohibit delivering or retrieving a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means unless it is an emergency or done under a permit (36 CFR 2.17). Scattering ashes in National Park Service areas is prohibited except under a permit or in designated areas (36 CFR 2.62). Contact the park's office well ahead, and get the conditions in writing. Other public land, such as national forests, state parks and tribal land, has its own managers, so ask them too.

What types of aerial scattering are there?

Providers describe their services in a few ways, and terms vary, so ask what each includes.

How do you get the ashes to the pilot?

You can hand them over in person. If you cannot, the only permitted US mail route is USPS Priority Mail Express. The USPS requires a strong, durable container sealed against leaks, placed in a sealed plastic bag inside the USPS cremated remains box with padding all around. See our guide to shipping cremated remains. If you are flying yourself with the remains, read flying with ashes.

Ask the provider whether the container or any tag or other hard items need to be removed before flight. Only the ashes should be released.

How much does it cost?

We could not find a reliable national price range, and providers price very differently depending on the aircraft, the distance and whether the family attends. Ask for a written quote and find out:

• what the flight and the release include
• whether the quote covers a witnessed flight, a family seat or a rescheduling fee
• what proof you get, such as a certificate with the date, time and location
• the cancellation and weather policy

Compare it with other options in our guide to professional scattering services.

What should you plan for on the day?

• Weather. Small aircraft depend on it, so keep your dates flexible and tell guests the plan may move.
• Containers. Pouring ashes by hand from a moving aircraft can send them back inside. Providers commonly use dispersal equipment, so let them do the release. A scattering tube is often easier to work with than a bag or a sealed urn.
• Who can come. Small planes seat only a few, so plan for most people to watch from the ground.
• Record. Ask for the location and date in writing for your family papers.

What to do next

1. Decide whether you want to be on the flight, watch from the ground or use an unwitnessed service.
2. Ask two or three providers for written quotes and what rules they follow for your chosen area.
3. If the flight is over the ocean or a park, ask who handles the EPA report or the park permit.
4. Choose a flexible date and arrange how the ashes will reach the pilot.

Not sure this is the right choice? See what to do with ashes for other ideas.