The Maldives has unveiled a new and unique dive site that celebrates the country’s aviation history. In a collaboration between the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), and the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), two Dornier 228 aircraft have been submerged in the lagoon at Picnic Island, Kudagiri, to create a new attraction for divers and tourists alike.
The site, named Kudagiri Dhoonier Wreck, is a tribute to Air Maldives, the country’s first national airline, which ceased operations in 2000. The Dornier 228 aircraft, now resting on the seafloor, symbolize the origins of the Maldives’ aviation industry and offer a glimpse into the nation’s history. The name “Dhoonier” is a blend of the Dhivehi word “Dhooni” (meaning bird) and “Dornier,” representing the aircraft as a “bird” that has flown into the depths of the ocean.
This new dive site is not only a historical homage but also part of the government’s broader initiative to boost the Maldives’ tourism industry. The project aims to enhance the nation’s appeal by offering an additional unique experience for tourists. To further promote the site’s ecological value, HDC has announced plans to conduct coral planting initiatives to create an artificial reef ecosystem, which will support marine biodiversity and attract more visitors.
The official launch of the dive site was attended by key figures, including Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim, HDC Managing Director Mohamed Mauroof Jameel, and senior officials from Ooreedoo Maldives. The government is working tirelessly to position the Maldives as a premier tourism destination, with a goal of welcoming 2.3 million tourists this year.
The Kudagiri Dhoonier Wreck marks another milestone in the Maldives’ efforts to innovate and diversify its tourism offerings, combining history, culture, and environmental preservation into a single captivating attraction for divers and history enthusiasts.
