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Two firms picked to host Lake Mead dives to WWII plane

A diver from NPS' Submerged Resources Center assesses the B-29 for natural deterioration and any damage potentially done to the wreckage by divers. (Photo/NPS)

A diver from NPS' Submerged Resources Center assesses the B-29 for natural deterioration and any damage potentially done to the wreckage by divers. (Photo/NPS)

LAS VEGAS (AP) — The National Park Service has selected two companies to provide the guided dives to the World War II plane that is submerged in Lake Mead.

Las Vegas Scuba and Scuba Training and Technology will be the only companies allowed to host divers who want to see the plane.

The B-29 Superfortress crashed into the lake straddling Nevada and Arizona in 1948 while taking part in high-altitude atmospheric research. The crew of five survived, but the plane stayed underwater.

“Only three B-29s were retrofitted as a flying laboratory for this type of research,” said Lake Mead Superintendent Margaret Goodro in a statement. “The B-29 within Lake Mead is the most original of its kind remaining, making it a tremendously important piece of American history.”

The two companies can provide 100 guided client dives each year for the next two years, park officials said.

Divers must join permitted tours affiliated with one of the two companies to dive to the plane site.


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