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Exploring the Underwater Lockheed Martin Tristar: A Diver’s Paradise (Photos)

Stephanie Cherry04 mins

Explore the Underwater Wonders of a Submerged Aircraft in the Red Sea

An Unconventional Dive Destination

The Red Sea is known for its stunning marine life and spectacular dive sites. However, one unique attraction stands out—an aircraft resting on the ocean floor, providing divers with an unparalleled experience. This underwater adventure allows exploration of a real Lockheed Martin L1011 Tristar, which has become a habitat for diverse sea creatures.

A New Ecosystem Underwater

Placed in the waters of the Gulf of Aqaba in 2019, the aircraft was intentionally submerged to create an artificial reef. Consequently, over the years, it has evolved into a vibrant underwater garden.

Red Sea resting place: This Lockheed Martin L1011 Tristar airplane was photographed underwater in the Red Sea by US diving expert Brett Hoelzer.
Red Sea resting place: This Lockheed Martin L1011 Tristar airplane was photographed underwater in the Red Sea by US diving expert Brett Hoelzer.

Inside the Aircraft

Interestingly, the interior of the plane remains largely intact. It allows divers to venture into various areas such as:

  • The cockpit
  • Main cabin, complete with seating rows
  • Galley

This unique perspective offers an exciting glimpse into the past while navigating through vibrant marine life that has taken residence within the aircraft.

Inside the plane: The interior of the plane is largely intact, allowing divers to explore the cockpit, main cabin -- complete with seating rows -- and the galley.
Inside the plane: The interior of the plane is largely intact, allowing divers to explore the cockpit, main cabin — complete with seating rows — and the galley.

A Wild Transformation

After spending three years submerged, the aircraft has become an essential part of the aquatic ecosystem. Its wings now provide shelter to numerous soft corals, while the fuselage is surrounded by large sponges, drawing a variety of marine life.

Underwater garden: After three years in the water, the plane's wings now shelter numerous soft corals. The fuselage is surrounded by huge sponges populated by a variety of sea life.
Underwater garden: After three years in the water, the plane’s wings now shelter numerous soft corals. The fuselage is surrounded by huge sponges populated by a variety of sea life.

Dive Experience and Location Details

Located at a depth of 15 to 28 meters, this fascinating wreck presents diverse diving experiences. The cockpit is the shallowest area facing the beach at approximately 13 meters, making it accessible for divers of varying skill levels. Moreover, the transition from air to underwater life creates a surreal atmosphere for explorers.

At an angle: Hoelzer says the plane lies at a depth of 15 to 28 meters, with the plane's tail at the deepest end. 'The cockpit is the shallowest part of the wreck and faces the beach at about 13 meters,' he says.
At an angle: Hoelzer says the plane lies at a depth of 15 to 28 meters, with the plane’s tail at the deepest end. ‘The cockpit is the shallowest part of the wreck and faces the beach at about 13 meters,’ he says.

Conclusion

In summary, diving into the submerged Lockheed Martin L1011 Tristar in the Red Sea offers a one-of-a-kind adventure that combines history with marine exploration. With its stunning underwater ecosystem, divers can experience the thrilling transformation of a once-abandoned aircraft into a vibrant coral refuge.


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