Underwater Airplane Recovery

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Lift bags are used to raise the submerged airplane to the surface.
  • Additional bags provide stability and prevent the plane from rolling over.
  • Water is drained from the aircraft once it's partially above water.
  • The recovered plane is then towed to shore.
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Ever wonder what it takes to recover an airplane from a body of water? Check out these pics and find out.

Underwater Airplane Recovery
Silhouette of the wings coming to the surface.
Underwater Airplane Recovery
Lift bags slowly bring the plane to the surface.
Underwater Airplane Recovery
Additional Bags raise the wings allowing for water drainage.
Underwater Airplane Recovery
Float plane getting towed to shore.
Underwater Airplane Recovery
Divers add stabilizer bags to prevent rollover.
Underwater Airplane Recovery
** Aircraft is strategically cradled with air bags for egress.**
Underwater Airplane Recovery
Cessna’s pontoons are pumped out.
Underwater Airplane Recovery
Rich Morin slowly winches this gorgeous Cessna to dry land.
Underwater Airplane Recovery
Cessna 180K after underwater recovery.

FLYING Staff

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