No fatalities

Aircraft destruction following post-takeoff fire (LN-SUW)

Harstad, NorwayTakeoff (climb)

On October 3, 1953, a Noorduyn Norseman (registration LN-SUW) operated by Wideroe - Wideroe's Flyveselskap was involved in an aviation accident near Harstad, Norway during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An intense fire broke out shortly after takeoff, leading to a crash and the destruction of the aircraft. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft was destroyed after catching fire during the initial climb phase of flight, resulting in an undetermined outcome for those on board.

What happened

Following its departure from the runway, the aircraft experienced a sudden fire shortly after takeoff. The blaze intensified as the plane progressed through its initial ascent, ultimately leading to a crash. The impact and subsequent fire resulted in the total destruction of the airframe.

At this time, the status of the occupants remains unconfirmed, as their fate is currently unknown. There are no official reports regarding specific fatalities or injuries, though the severity of the post-takeoff fire suggests a critical emergency.

Findings

Preliminary information indicates that the incident was characterized by an intense fire occurring during the takeoff phase. The primary factor in the loss of the aircraft was the onboard fire that erupted immediately after leaving the ground.

Probable cause

An intense fire broke out shortly after takeoff, leading to a crash and the destruction of the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Oct 1953 Noorduyn Norseman accident near Harstad, Norway?

An aircraft was destroyed after catching fire during the initial climb phase of flight, resulting in an undetermined outcome for those on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Oct 1953 Noorduyn Norseman accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Oct 1953 involved a Noorduyn Norseman, registration LN-SUW, operated by Wideroe - Wideroe's Flyveselskap, at Harstad, Norway.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An intense fire broke out shortly after takeoff, leading to a crash and the destruction of the aircraft.