Scattering ashes from an aircraft, over an area of significance to the Loved one has not previously been available in NZ with passengers onboard. A favourite bush walk, an East or West coast beach, harbour, or the Hauraki Gulf may be among the choices for those looking for something truly appropriate as the final resting place of one near and dear to them.

Seating is available for up to thirty (30) passengers to share in the tribute to, and celebration of the life of a relative or friend in a unique way by dispersing their ashes over an area previously chosen by the person or by a close relative or friend.

In New Zealand, there are few restrictions where the aircraft may operate for these Commemoration Flights. As a guide to normal operating procedures, a flight incorporating the inner Hauraki Gulf islands and Auckland can be readily achieved within 30 minutes of departure from the base airfield at Ardmore.

The DC-3 Flight Service Director will arrange for the Family and friends to arrive about 15 minutes earlier than the other guests, in time to meet all the crew. You will then have the option to participate in the practical arrangements of preparing the aircraft and the cabin, for the timely release of the ashes. The Cabin Crew will prepare a fresh pot of tea or a Bodum of Coffee and the Pilots will open up their maps and involve and inform everyone with directions, timings and decisions.

A basket of Rosemary sprigs or flower petals will also be available, and Champagne and/or OJ will be served in flight ready for a 'toast' at the time of release.

All our DC-3 flights are crewed by experienced, licensed Pilots and Cabin Crew. All Celebration and Commemoration Flights are also accompanied by another Pilot, Ground crew or Cabin crew member who is experienced in the procedures, and focussed on the family and friends. We will work in with your (or our) Celebrant if you wish, to offer a memorable service with quite a difference.

For further information and details contact Jessica.

• 0274 382 297
  09-479-1378
  flydc3@paradise.net.nz
  
  
• Fares - a guide is $2200 for ½ hr and $4150 for 1 hr.
  (Check on the ½ hr and 1 hr Charter pages for an idea of how far the DC-3 can fly in that time.)
  
  
• You may wish to charter the aircraft to operate a 'Fly Past', and scatter flower petals etc while there is a Service on the ground, rather than scattering ashes.)