Aerial burials
In an age of affluence, and in an era where many more of us experience opportunities to “do something different” to the Regular Joe, people now seek bigger, better and bolder alternatives to traditional funerals. If you or your associates seek the sensational, perhaps Aerial Burials is worth investigating.
The History
Aerial Burials from Koo-wee-rup (Vic) originated when the operators learned of a dying man's wish to have his ashes scattered above his favourite restaurant in the Dandenongs. Have you considered your options and discussed them with family members? Do you think about your voyage to the hereafter? Aerial burials are big business in many states in the US where promoters urge potential customers to ponder the “final freedom of flight”. Personally, I'd be cherishing the pleasures of that “final flight to freedom!”
In the US, advertising is geared towards the benefits of scattering ashes over superb scenery, wonderful waterways, mighty mountain ranges, fabulous forests or a multitude of other scenic spots. It has its appeal. As I choose to spend as much time as I can in the great outdoors while living, it sounds rather nice to do so also upon death. In reality, I'm sure the proprietors are much more concerned with respecting the wishes of families than the scenic destinations they can offer clients.
Aerial Burials offer their services throughout all Australian States. While being overwhelmed by the number of daily enquiries, they are also intrigued to find so many are being generated by baby boomers, though the first enquiry was from an 86 year old.
Ms Donna Jacobs, National Marketing & Operations Manager for the company, stresses that anyone desiring to have their remains scattered aerially ensures that their doctor, family members and executor/s are notified accordingly.
Aerial Burials offer a fixed price for flights within Australia. Within 50 km of your local CBD charges are $550 incl. GST or within 100 km it will cost you $875 incl. GST. To scatter ashes further a field, quotes will be given on request. Keep in mind that this is a cheaper option than most earthbound interments. Currently the company is negotiating with the NT Aboriginal Land Council to accede to one client's hopes to scatter ashes above Kakadu in July 2006.
The Process
Once contacted, Ms Jacobs makes arrangements for a personal visit to answer questions and discuss the intentions of the departed and his/her family. She might suggest locations and is able to arrange catering, transport to the site, etc. She finds these visits assist families in the grieving process. Ashes can be personally delivered to her, arrangements can be co-ordinated through a funeral home or Aerial Burials can arrange for their transfer.
Ashes are generally dispersed within seven days of receipt, depending on the weather. Customers are assured of sensitive and personal attention at all times. There are several easy-to-understand forms to be completed and payment can be made by cash, cheque or credit card.
Though Aerial Burials can fly out of any small airport Australia wide, unfortunately, passengers are not allowed aboard during the scattering due to Air Navigational Regulations. However, families often mark the occasion with a visit to the site of the dispersal.
Flight paths are between 1,500 feet and 10,000 feet. Once at the dispersal point, the aircraft dips its wings to identify itself to those below. The plane then does two orbits and on the third disperses the ashes. The moment the ashes are dispersed, a Global Positioning System reading is taken marking the exact geographical location (longitude and latitude). The family is issued with a uniquely designed certificate incorporating these particulars together with the name of the deceased, place of dispersal, time and date. This is not a legal document.
An additional service on offer is the dispersal of your beloved pet, which will be handled with compassion and respect. The emotional bond between pets and owners is strong; therefore, it is no surprise that people are find it difficult to deal with such a loss. Frequently pets are like family members, and when departed, they, too, can be remembered in this special way.
Ms Jacobs is keen for the public to realise the relevant authorities approve the scattering of ashes. “The Environmental Protection Authority and the Civil Aviation Authority have given us their full support,” she said.
Hopefully, one day this pioneering company will flourish and expand to incorporate other aerial options for the scattering of ashes. One American company allows clients choice of Cessna's, floatplanes, helicopters and hot air balloons for that ultimate journey.