A Serene Farewell in the Skies
A Journey Above the Clouds
Honoring deceased loved ones with a unique, silent, and peaceful aerial ash scattering service from a sailplane. A peaceful farewell in the open skies.
As the sailplane glides silently above the world, it mirrors the soul's journey - elevated, free, and at peace.
This act not only honors the memory of the departed but also reflects their love for adventure and the vastness of life. Each gentle breeze and each sweeping vista becomes a part of their eternal farewell, blending the tranquility of the skies with the serenity of the moment. In this beautiful journey, there is both an intimate farewell and a celebration of a life lived fully.
The Grace of Eternal Ascent
Why Scatter from a Sailplane?
Choosing to scatter ashes from a sailplane offers a farewell like no other. In the absolute absence of engine noise, the only sound is the gentle rush of wind—a peaceful release that mirrors the tranquility of a spirit returning to nature.
Ash scattering from a sailplane aligns with eco-friendly values by offering a gentle method that leaves a minimal ecological footprint. This approach respects both the earth and those we cherish, making it an ideal choice for those who value sustainability.
Our Services
Ride Along
Want to experience the ceremony from the cockpit of the glider? We offer a ride along option to enhance the experience.
Add $150
Pet Ceremony
Scatter the ashes of a beloved pet as a tribute to honor their loyalty to the family and how they touched your lives.
$425
Scatter a loved one's ashes from a sailplane as a memorial to honor your loved one.
$650
Loved Ones Ceremony
Honoring Life Through the Grace of Flight
Stairway to Heaven LLC is dedicated to providing a serene and elevated farewell. We believe in honoring your loved ones through the silent, majestic flight of a sailplane, offering a unique journey that transcends the ordinary and touches the sky. Our mission is defined by tranquility, grace, and an unwavering commitment to a peaceful transition.
What to Expect
A step-by-step guide to our memorial flight, ensuring every family experiences a peaceful and dignified transition for their loved ones. We know this can be an emotional and uncertain time. That's why we've put together a simple guide to help you understand exactly what happens - both in the days leading up to your ash scattering ceremony, and on the day itself.
01. Personalized Planning
02. Silent Ascent
03. Celestial Tribute
04. Memorial Log
Our sailplane ascends silently with your loved one's ashes, using natural thermals, providing a tranquil and majestic environment for the scattering ceremony far above the noise of the world.
We collaborate with you to plan the flight and time, ensuring the ceremony aligns with your specific wishes and honors the legacy of your loved one. You may choose to ride along, or you may choose not to be present.
The ashes are gently released into the atmosphere, allowing them to drift on the wind and become part of the great expansive sky in a graceful act of love.
Following the flight, family members receive a commemorative certificate documenting the exact coordinates and altitude of the release. A video of the experience will be provided to document the flight ceremony.
Testimonials
"A magical experience!"
I don't even know where to begin. Just as soon as I saw the video on the Stairway to Heaven website, I knew this was something I had to do to pay tribute to my late husband, Lance. I was looking for another way to spread his cremains that was unique, unparalleled, distinctive, and extraordinary. I found it through Steven Coan and Stairway to Heaven. He met all of those requirements and then some!
He made the process leading up to the flight easy and organized. His instructions for sending my items to him were clear, and he provided me with wonderful suggestions for how to personalize the experience just for me.
Stevie took video of his preparation for the flight as well as the release of 'Lance'. I can't begin to express the emotions I felt watching the entire process. I cried like a baby -- in a great way.
This was the most amazing tribute to an amazing man. I can't say enough about how perfect this was. I only have one regret. I'm sorry that I didn't go up in the glider with Stevie to experience the moment first-hand. That would have been the icing on the cake.
Stevie Coan, you gave me something that was priceless. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Connect With Us
Stairway to Heaven LLC
Jacksonville, Florida
Inquiries
stairwaytoheavenflights@gmail.com
Pilot Stevie Coan
With a career spanning decades, Stevie Coan is a master of the silent currents. His lifelong dedication to aviation is distinguished by a place on the Wall of Honor at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, marking him as a true pioneer in the world of flight.
For families considering a memorial flight, Stevie provides a presence of steady precision and profound peace. He approaches every ceremony with a deep reverence for nature, ensuring your loved one’s farewell is handled with the utmost dignity and grace amid the tranquil beauty of the heavens.
A five-time United States Sailplane Aerobatic Champion, Stevie represented the U.S. on the World Competition team for six consecutive years. His technical excellence is recognized by the National Aeronautique Association’s Certificate of Honor, ensuring that every flight is conducted with world-class expertise.
Stevie’s legacy includes three world speed records and an international Bronze medal in glider aerobatics. From serving as a test pilot to instructing USAFA Cadets, his vast experience allows him to navigate the skies with a serenity that brings comfort to the hearts of those left behind.