How The US Recovers Sunken Spy Planes

Have you ever wondered how lost planes are recovered? In this post, we’ll delve deeper into the different technologies and techniques that are used to scan, locate, and even remove downed planes. 

Trouble In Hawaii

On November 2023, a P-8A Poseidon spy plane missed the runway causing it to crash into the water off the island of Oahu, Hawaii.

While on routine training, the crew encountered limited visibility up to about 1 mile as wind gusts peaked at 21 mph.

Although none of the crew were injured, the US Marine Corps deployed a rapid extraction plan to recover the plane.

The Extraction Plan

Precautionary environmental containment booms were immediately used around the partially submerged plane, keeping the leaking fuel from spreading. 

To remove the plane, approximately 2,000 gallons of fuel were removed to lighten the load.

Inflatable cylinders were then placed beneath the fuselage, giving it buoyancy.

Then, the partially submerged plane was rolled backward. A couple of hours later, the plane was finally lifted above the shoreline and safely returned to the tarmac. 

The Search for Scientific Excellence

Every year, prototypes are being developed to improve search and rescue capabilities. 

Apart from autonomous underwater vehicles, steps have been made in technologies designed specifically for divers.

One notable innovation is the diver augmented vision display.

This technology helps revolutionize the way divers perceive and interact with their underwater environment.