Solheimasandur Plane Wreck, Aircraft wreck on black sand beach in South Iceland
The Solheimasandur Plane Wreck is a Douglas C-117D military transport aircraft resting on dark volcanic sand, its metal hull contrasting sharply against the barren landscape. The fuselage remains largely intact, with weathered metal surfaces revealing decades of exposure to the harsh Icelandic climate.
In November 1973, the aircraft encountered severe icing while on a supply mission and made an emergency landing on this black sand beach. The crew survived and was rescued, but the plane was abandoned and never removed from the site.
The wreck has become a symbol of human resilience and industrial decay, drawing artists, photographers, and filmmakers fascinated by its isolation. It represents a moment frozen in time that speaks to many about nature's power and survival.
Visitors must walk approximately two hours round trip from the parking area, as direct vehicle access is restricted to protect the site. The route crosses black sand and can become muddy or hazardous in rain or wind, so proper footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are essential.
The aircraft has remained virtually untouched since its emergency landing, never salvaged or removed, making it a rare chance to walk through a preserved moment of history. This authenticity sets it apart from most other wreck sites that have been cleared or heavily modified over time.
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