Investigation of the capsizing and sinking of fishing vessel north of Flagstadøya in Lofoten
The Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority (NSIA) has decided to investigate the accident involving the fishing vessel Leonora. On 2 April 2026, the fishing vessel was en route to the fishing grounds with two fishermen and a child on board. During the voyage, the vessel capsized, and one of the fishermen and the child later lost their lives as a result of the accident.
At approximately 19:30, the vessel capsized while en route to the fishing grounds north of Flakstadøya. Those on board managed to establish contact with the rescue services, and a rescue operation was initiated.
The rescue vessel Det Norske Veritas was called out and took one of the fishermen on board at approximately 20:30. The fisherman survived the accident. The other fisherman and a child were recovered from the sea by a rescue helicopter and transported to hospital. Both died as a result of the accident.
Latest update: 20.04.2026
Facts
| Location | North of Flagstadøya in Lofoten |
| Occurrence date | 02.04.2026 |
| Accident category | Capsize |
| Area | Norwegian Territorial Waters |
| Name of vessel | Leonora |
| Accident type | Fatal Accident, Capsize, Loss of stability |
| Vessel type | Fishing Vessel |