The Maldives recently unveiled an exciting new dive site near Kudagiri Picnic Island, featuring two submerged Dornier Do 228 aircraft. The Housing Development Corporation (HDC), in collaboration with the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) and the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), spearheaded the initiative to enhance the country’s marine tourism offerings while preserving its aviation heritage.
Air Maldives once used the Dornier Do 228, one of the first aircraft purchased by the airline. After years of service, the airline decommissioned the planes and repurposed them for this ambitious project. MTCC’s landing craft submerged the planes carefully in the lagoon, guiding them safely to the seabed with weights. The planes now serve as artificial reefs, fostering marine life and providing a unique attraction for divers.
The site, now known as the ‘Dornier Wreck,’ contributes to a broader effort to diversify tourism in the Maldives, offering an alternative to traditional attractions. It is expected to become a major draw for both tourists and locals, especially as Kudagiri Picnic Island, which has served as a recreational space for Greater Malé area residents since 2023, continues to attract visitors.
In addition to boosting tourism, the Dornier Wreck supports marine biodiversity. The submerged planes will gradually transform into vibrant underwater ecosystems, creating a unique dive experience while promoting sustainability and marine conservation.
The project highlights the Maldives’ ongoing commitment to innovative, eco-friendly tourism initiatives, blending history with nature to offer a one-of-a-kind attraction for diving enthusiasts.
