The tail of the B-29 aircraft that crashed into Lake Mead in 1948 and remains at the bottom of the lake after 72 years. (NPS Submerged Resources Center Photo)
BOULDER CITY, Nev. – The National Park Service has issued permits to Las Vegas Scuba, LLC and Scuba Training and Technology Inc., to provide guided technical dives on the World War II B-29 vintage plane.
The plane crashed into Lake Mead July 21, 1948, while engaged in high-altitude atmospheric research. The crew of five survived the crash, but the plane remains deep at the bottom of the lake.
“Only three B-29s were retrofitted as a flying laboratory for this type of research. The B-29 within Lake Mead is the most original of its kind remaining, making it a tremendously important piece of American history,” said Superintendent Margaret L. Goodro.
“Las Vegas Scuba and Scuba Training and Technology are going to help ensure this history is protected while enhancing recreational access, giving experienced divers the opportunity to safely view the iconic plane,” she added.
Las Vegas Scuba and Scuba Training and Technology are authorized to provide 100 guided client dives on the B-29 site each year for the next two years. They may also provide unlimited scuba instruction and scuba charter for other locations within the park.
To dive on the site, you must be part of a permitted tour. For more information on upcoming tour schedules, please contact the companies below.
- Las Vegas Scuba, LLC, www.lasvegasscuba.com, 702-542-8023.
- Scuba Training and Technology Inc., www.scubatrainingandtechnology.com, 928-855-9400.
