Catalina
Seaplane
WHAT IS IT
Catalina
Seaplane
The story begins with Thomas Kendall, a retired American businessman, who was taking his family on a flight around the world in a converted Catalina Military Seaplane.
On March 22, 1960, Kendall landed without permission on the beach near Ras Al-Sheikh Humaid, on the western tip of NEOM where the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Red Sea. After camping overnight, on the following day, the Catalina came under fire from local tribesmen, fearing it was an invading aircraft. Neither Kendall nor his family were injured; however, the Catalina suffered extensive damage, rendering it unfit for flying.
Kendall returned to the United States, but his plane has remained here since, casting a major presence on the sands.
On March 22, 1960, Kendall landed without permission on the beach near Ras Al-Sheikh Humaid, on the western tip of NEOM where the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Red Sea. After camping overnight, on the following day, the Catalina came under fire from local tribesmen, fearing it was an invading aircraft. Neither Kendall nor his family were injured; however, the Catalina suffered extensive damage, rendering it unfit for flying.
Kendall returned to the United States, but his plane has remained here since, casting a major presence on the sands.
Catalina Seaplane
What to do
Catalina
Seaplane
Spend time walking around the wreckage, marveling at its design and form and imagining that day in 1960.
Swim in the refreshing waters surrounding the wreck and at night absorb the silence and serenity of the night sky.
Swim in the refreshing waters surrounding the wreck and at night absorb the silence and serenity of the night sky.
