Frequently Asked Questions:


Can you scatter over land as well as water? / How much flexibility do we have in choosing where we scatter?
There is an amazing amount of flexibility in deciding where your loved ones’ ashes can be scattered, either over water or land. Some areas require the family and us to obtain written permission, and we will do the leg-work for you when this is the case (no additional charge). Generally, the US Forest Service will not give permission where as the National Park Service and California State Parks will, with some minor exceptions. Also, scattering over populated areas is prohibited.


Do have a license to scatter ashes?
Mark is licensed by the Cemetery and Funeral Bureau of the State of California to scatter ashes. Mark is also a FAA licensed Commercial Pilot.


How can we witness the scattering?
One way to witness the scattering is to arrange a specific time and be at the location as the scattering is done. This is possible, for example, at Pidgon Point. Another option is to witness the scattering from another aircraft in formation flight. There are aircraft available that accommodate up to nine people with large windows.

We offer these options as opposed to being in the aircraft that scatters the ashes because the process of saying “good-bye” can be highly emotional. Due to liability concerns, we can accommodate a clergy member or funeral director if they are able to meet us at an airport within 25 miles of the scattering.


When will you perform the memorial scattering mission?
Usually, we are able to scatter your loved ones ashes within one to two weeks of receiving them. For practical reasons we only scatter when we can see the ground and that requires cooperative weather. Some other services will scatter during inclimate weather, but the possibility of scattering on a boat or hiker, while small, is still too great.


What a typical unattended ceremony like and how will I know that the ashes have been scattered?
On the day of service, the aircraft will depart the Palo Alto Airport and head for the open ocean. Upon arrival at the location you chose, the ceremony will commence. A blessing on behalf of the deceased will be read and the deceased's name will be stated. The ashes are then scattered on the sea followed by cut flowers or rose petals if you have requested them. The exact time, date and location according to Global Positioning Satellite will be documented and the aircraft will return to the airport.

We will mail you a memorial certificate that includes the date, time, and location of the scattering. Your choice of 8x10, 5x7, or 3x5 professional photograph in addition to the completed VS-9 as required by the State of California will also be enclosed.


How do I get the ashes to you?
Specific directions are on a separate page. We will pick them up if they are located in areas of Santa Clara or San Mateo County. Otherwise, they may be mailed through the Post Office, UPS, or FedEx. Your funeral home can assist you in preparing the ashes for shipping.


Can ashes be sent from outside California or the United States?
To send ashes from out of state you will need to get a transit permit, which can usually be obtained at your county health department. We will also need a copy of the death certificate so we can complete a form required by the state (you will receive a copy).


What do you include in your service?
You will receive a memorial certificate with the date, exact time, and location by latitude and longitude. We will also include your choice of a professional 8x10, 5x7, or 3x5 photograph of the location. More details are on our What’s included & Options Page.


How does our family make special requests?
Special requests, such as music to be played, a message, poem, or verse to be read and flowers to be scattered with the ashes are included on the Confirmation of Services form. If you have any other requests, feel free to call us and we will help to arrange them.


What do you charge?
The charges for many flights are outlined on our Locations and What’s Included and Options pages. The prices listed and final quotes we give will include any required permits and fees. If there is a location that is not listed, we will certainly work with you to find another location that is also special to your family and loved one and provide a no-obligation quote.


Do you offer a Veteran's Discount?
Yes. With a copy of their DD214 form or discharge papers we will provide a 20% discount.


Will you scatter more than one person’s ashes on a flight?
Absolutely and positively not. Each scattering is a solemn, personal event and we would in no way consider this as an option. The only exception is if the people are related AND the people who are legaly responsible for the final disposition request so in writing.


May I scatter the ashes in multiple locations?
Many people chose to be scattered in a few places that were special to them. This is very common. If you chose to send only a portion of the remains please indicate this on the confirmation of services.


Do you also scatter pet's ashes?
Yes, we certainly do. Most of the information is the same except that there is a $25 discount from the posted prices as many of the permits that are required for people are not required for pets.


What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept checks, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, and Diners Club.


Further Questions
Please call or e-mail us to further discuss your wishes or answer any questions.

Mark Bronson
4271 N. First St., Suite 106
San Jose, CA 95134-1215
(415) 505-7101

Instructions / How to start the process / Araingements

  • Download the Confirmation of Services form and fill it out completely. If you would prefer, call us and we will fax or mail a copy.
  • Once you have received the ashes prepare them for shipment.
  • Ashes are generally presented to you in a box with an inner plastic liner. Place these in a shipping box with:
  • VS-9 (in CA) or Death Certificate (outside CA)
  • Confirmation of Services completed
  • Payment
  • Seal all of the seams of the box.
  • Write “Human Cremains” on the address side of the box

If sending by USPS, the box must be sent registered mail with return receipt service and Restricted Delivery. If sending from another country please be sure to use the equivalent service. UPS and FedEx are also options. BE SURE TO REQUIRE A SIGNATURE TO RELESE THE PACKAGE.

Address the box as follows:

Mark or Terri Bronson
Bronson Aviation, Inc.
4271 N. First St., Suite 106
San Jose, CA 95134-1215