Diving atTriStar Lockheed L1011 (Jordan)
Exploring the TriStar Lockheed L1011 offers an extraordinary opportunity to dive into an actual commercial airliner submerged as an artificial reef. This unique experience allows certified divers to navigate the interior of a former passenger jet, immersing themselves in a structure that retains much of its original form. It's a surreal adventure, blending aviation history with vibrant underwater exploration on the Red Sea's floor.
The latest environmental reading at TriStar Lockheed L1011 indicates an air temperature of 23°C. The regional climate in Jordan is aligning with expected historical averages. Prepare your gear according to these specific local conditions.
Dive Site Coordinates
29.5024, 34.9918
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
The Lockheed L-1011-500 TriStar began its final journey on August 26, 2019, purposefully scuttled to serve as a new marine habitat and dive attraction. This wide-body trijet airliner, originally built in the seventies and first flying in August 1983, now rests on the seabed in the sandy area near Aqaba's South Beach, directly in front of the old phosphate port.
Measuring an impressive 50 m / 164 ft in length and with an equally wide wingspan, the plane provides extensive areas for exploration. Its strategic placement was intended to promote dive tourism and encourage the growth of marine organisms, creating a thriving artificial reef. Divers can access various parts of the wreck, with doors intentionally opened and middle seats removed from the cabin to facilitate easier passage.
The cockpit remains largely intact, complete with flight instruments and pilot seats. For wreck-certified divers seeking an additional thrill, a unique exit path is available through the aircraft's third engine, which is integrated into the rear fuselage via an S-duct.
Best Time to Dive
Planning your dive around the TriStar Lockheed L1011 is excellent almost year-round, with peak conditions from January through April, July, and October to December. During these months, the air temperature is consistently comfortable, ranging from 17-27°C / 63-81°F, and rainfall is minimal to non-existent. The warmer summer months, particularly July and August, see air temperatures rise to around 34°C / 93°F, yet dive conditions remain highly favorable. Even in months like May, June, August, and September, conditions are generally considered good, though air temperatures might be higher. This consistent pleasant weather ensures divers can enjoy clear visibility and calm waters for exploring the aircraft's extensive structure without significant environmental concerns.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Diving the TriStar offers an advanced wreck experience with exceptional visibility, frequently exceeding 25 m / 82 ft. The wreck rests on a sandy bottom, which currently lacks extensive coral reefs but hosts scattered seagrass meadows where marine life is beginning to establish. Its depth range runs from 18 to 28 meters (59 to 92 feet), with the cockpit forming the shallowest point around 13 meters, facing towards the beach. The tail section lies at the deepest part of the wreck, near 28 meters. Entry to the site is typically via boat, where divers will encounter light surge conditions around the wreck. With its wide-body design and modifications for diver access, the TriStar provides ample internal space for those with appropriate wreck diving certifications.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching the TriStar Lockheed L1011 wreck requires divers to adhere to specific safety protocols, particularly given the opportunities for internal exploration. Divers should hold certifications such as PADI Advanced Open Water Diver and ideally PADI Wreck Diver to safely navigate the interior sections. While the wreck features easy access points with opened doors and removed seats, proper training ensures you understand overhead environment procedures and maintain situational awareness. It's crucial to plan your dive profile carefully, considering the wreck's varying depths between 18 and 28 meters. Always dive within your training limits and remain aware of your air consumption and no-decompression limits, especially during extended internal tours. Light surge may be present, so maintaining good buoyancy control is key.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
With water temperatures around 22°C (72°F), many divers find a 3-5mm wetsuit provides comfortable protection.
Divers performing multiple dives may appreciate slightly warmer protection later in the day.
Surface conditions are expected to warm up slightly in the coming days. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
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Marine Life at TriStar Lockheed L1011
Observing the evolving marine ecosystem around the TriStar is a highlight for many divers. Though the surrounding area initially consists of sand and some seagrass, the wreck itself acts as a magnet for new life. Soft corals are visibly attaching to the wings, while huge sponges are starting to encircle the fuselage, transforming the plane into a vibrant artificial reef. Keep an eye out for moray eels, which often find shelter within the wreck's nooks, and the occasional hawksbill turtle gracefully patrolling the site. You might also spot octopuses and pufferfish near developing coral heads, signifying the successful colonization of this submerged aircraft.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Lockheed L-1011-500 TriStar scuttled?
The Lockheed L-1011-500 TriStar was scuttled on August 26, 2019. It was intentionally sunk to create a new artificial reef and enhance dive tourism in the area.
Where does the wreck rest?
The wreck rests in front of the old phosphate port on Aqaba's shorelines. It lies in a sandy area close to South Beach, making it accessible from Aqaba.
What is the wreck's depth range?
The wreck typically rests at depths between 18 and 28 meters. Its cockpit is shallower, around 13 meters, while the tail reaches nearly 28 meters.
What are the dimensions of the TriStar wreck?
The TriStar is 50 meters long with a 50-meter wingspan. Its large size offers extensive areas for exploration underwater.
Can divers enter the wreck's interior?
Yes, divers can enter the wreck through various open doors. The middle seats were removed to provide ample space, allowing exploration of the cabin, cockpit, galleys, and even toilets.
What certifications are recommended for diving the TriStar?
The site is generally considered suitable for advanced divers. PADI Advanced Open Water Diver and PADI Wreck Diver certifications are recommended, especially for those planning to penetrate the interior.
What marine life can be expected at the wreck?
As an artificial reef, the TriStar is attracting marine life. Divers commonly spot moray eels, hawksbill turtles, octopuses, and pufferfish. Soft corals and sponges are also beginning to grow on the wreck's surfaces.
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