13 fatalities

Aircraft crash in Snarøya following engine failure after takeoff from Oslo-Fornebu (LN-LAB)

Oslo-Fornebu, NorwayTakeoff (climb)

On May 22, 1946, a Junkers JU.52 (registration LN-LAB) operated by Det Norske Luftfartselskap - DNL was involved in an aviation accident near Oslo-Fornebu, Norway during takeoff. 13 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by an engine failure that led to a loss of altitude during the return maneuver. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into a wooded area in Snarøya shortly after departing Oslo-Fornebu due to an engine failure, resulting in the deaths of thirteen occupants and serious injuries to one passenger.

What happened

The incident occurred during the initial climb phase shortly after departure from Oslo-Fornebu Airport. The flight crew reported a malfunction with the left engine to ground control and decided to execute an immediate return. While maneuvering for the final turn, the aircraft lost altitude and collided with tree tops before impacting the ground in a forested section of Snarøya, situated southwest of the airport.

The crash resulted in significant casualties among those on board. Thirteen occupants were killed in the accident, while one passenger sustained serious injuries. The deceased included notable figures from the literary community, though specific identities are not detailed in this summary beyond the general context of the event.

Findings

Official investigations identified the primary factor leading to the accident as an engine failure. This mechanical issue prompted the crew's decision to return to the airport, but the subsequent loss of height during the approach phase proved fatal.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an engine failure that led to a loss of altitude during the return maneuver.