No fatalities

Engine failure leads to crash at Stamsund Airport (N-35)

Stamsund (Lofoten Islands), NorwayTakeoff (climb)

On June 22, 1930, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration N-35) operated by Harstad Lufttrafik was involved in an aviation accident near Stamsund (Lofoten Islands), Norway during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure shortly after liftoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-04Data APIEditorial standards

A single-engine aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Stamsund Airport due to an engine failure during the climb phase. Both occupants survived without injury, though the airframe was destroyed.

What happened

The incident occurred immediately following departure from Stamsund Airport. While the aircraft was in the initial climb phase, it experienced a total loss of power. This mechanical issue resulted in an aerodynamic stall, causing the airplane to descend rapidly and impact the ground. The crash site sustained significant structural damage, rendering the airframe beyond economic repair. Despite the severity of the impact, both individuals on board were able to exit the wreckage without sustaining any injuries.

Findings

The official investigation identified the root cause as a mechanical malfunction. Specifically, the engine failure occurred shortly after liftoff, which prevented the aircraft from maintaining altitude and ultimately led to the accident.

Probable cause

Engine failure shortly after liftoff