Is it legal to scatter over land in California?
Yes! On January 1st, 1999, it became legal to scatter over land in California according to California Health and Safety Code 7116. The law does require written permission from the land owner or governing agency. Tanabe Flying Services has acquired special blanket letters from many wonderful areas listed on the "Locations and Pricing" page. Tanabe Flying Services will scatter over any special location the family requests, as long as the family receives written permission to do so.
What are the advantages of scattering by air?
Scattering by air is different than scattering by boat. When scattered from a boat, the cremated remains (ashes) immediately descend to the water. When scattered from an airplane, the cremated remains (ashes) are released over a larger area. Some of the cremated remains (ashes) descend to the Earth below, while others are allowed to stay aloft, floating with the winds.
Are you insured? Licensed?
Yes. Tanabe Flying Services carries $1,000,000 in professional liability insurance. Jamie Tanabe is a licensed Cremated Remains Disposer with the State of California, and is an FAA-licensed commercial pilot.
How long until the cremated remains (ashes) are scattered?
For unwittnessed scatterings we can usually scatter the cremated remains (ashes) within one month of receipt, but ti is often dependent upon the weather. Once we have possession of the cremated remains (ashes) and verify that all of the paperwork is accurate, the scattering flight will be scheduled. You will be notified by mail of the day and time that the flight is expected to occur. You are invited to the airport to witness the take off at no additional charge.
Can we ride along during the scatterings?
Yes, in our Golden Journey up to two family members may accompany us on the scattering flight. Please view the "Location and Pricing" section for other witnessing options.
How will I know when the scattering is done?
You will receive a certificate, suitable for framing that includes the date, time, and location of the scattering.
Can I get more than one certificate of scattering?
Yes. One certificate is included per scattering. Additional certificates can be purchased for $10 each.
How do I mail cremated remains (ashes)?
The cremated remains (ashes) may be mailed via the U.S. Postal Service "registered mail-return receipt requested". They must be packaged in a sift proof container and labeled as "cremated remains (ashes)". The Postal Service can further assist you with these instructions. Our Authorization to Scatter Form and the VS-9 (which is the form that you received from the mortuary), MUST accompany the cremated remains (ashes).
Can cremated remains (ashes) be sent from outside of California?
Yes. You will need to get a transit permit from your state, which can usually be obtained from your county health department or your mortuary. We will also need a copy of the death certificate as well as our Authorization to Scatter Form.
Can the cremated remains (ashes) be scattered over land?
Yes. We can scatter the cremated remains (ashes) anywhere you would like, as long as we have written permission from the landowner or governing agency. We must have this permission in writing specifying that aerial scattering is allowed and that Tanabe Flying Services is granted permission to do so. We must be able to identify the area on a map. Land size restrictions apply.
Can I make a special request?
Yes. Tanabe Flying Services will try to honor all requests made. Go the the Options & Pricing section for details.
Can we have a memorial service with the scattering?
Yes. Many People choose to have a traditional service preceeding the scattering. Others choose to have a service at the location where they ae going to view the scattering from the ground. Tanabe Flying Services will try to honor all requests made. Go the the Cremation Solutions website via the link below for suggestions.
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