Old passenger plane becomes a home for marine life on the seabed

The aircraft, which once served under Canadian Airlines, was removed from the fleet by Air Canada due to its aging structure and integrity. The stripped-down fuselage was acquired by the Artificial Reef Society of British Columbia and, after four years of detailed preparation, was lowered into the sea off the coast of Vancouver Island.

Before being released into the sea, the Boeing 737's fuselage underwent a meticulous cleaning process by volunteers, being cleared of oil residues, insulation materials, and any elements that could harm the environment. After obtaining approval from environmental authorities and local communities in the region, the plane was transported to a specific spot near Chemainus. The main fuselage of the plane, weighing approximately 15 tons, was placed underwater onto special 3.3-meter-high frames with the help of a crane.

When selecting the area, both the impact of forestry debris left on the seabed in the past and the weakness of the natural marine life were taken into consideration. Keeping the plane in an elevated position from the ground allowed divers to comfortably explore both its interior and its underside.

Over time, this giant fuselage, positioned at depths ranging from approximately 21 to 30 meters, was quickly adopted by marine life. Today, this artificial reef is known as the Xihuw Reef and stands out as a habitat for more than 100 different marine species. Various species, from rockfish seeking shelter between the wings to octopuses and sponges inhabiting the plane's fuselage, have made use of this new living environment. Additionally, the area has become a popular spot for diving enthusiasts.

A plane that once carried thousands of passengers in the sky is now hosting a completely different world in the depths of the sea.

News Source: 12punto