I was born in Tecera Azores as an Airforce Brat. My mom just past away and I would like to bring her there and dispose of her ashes in the ocean off the coast of Azores. I would be going next June. I need advice on how to do this.
Posted by
Des Moines, IA
2193 posts
You might start by contacting the local government by e-mail and inquiring about this directly with them…check the internet for contact information. There may be laws, license requirements, or various regulations (i.e. environmental) governing this type of burial, and you would want to ensure proper compliance. Are there any benefits for honorably discharged veterans/spouses from the U.S. Air Force that you can take advantage of? If you think there may be, perhaps you should contact them as well. What are the rules around transporting remains...might want to check with TSA and the airline(s) you're thinking of using? You should check with the funeral home and your local and state governments to ensure you're in compliance with all of their rules and laws as well.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
There can be lots of regulations in this area AND recently read about the TSA taking someone's ashes when they tried to board a plane. May have to go as checked luggage. Follow Mike's suggestions.
Posted by
Myrtle Beach, USA
12313 posts
Transporting human remains will need permission and some prearranging. I think it's considered a serious violation to transport human remains without doing it right. You will have to check with the Azores first to see what their policy is on letting you bring it in and if it's okay to dispose of in the ocean. Then you will have to check with the airline to find out what their policy is.
I don't want to discourage you from doing it, just make sure you don't get into any trouble.