Watch This Halifax Warbird Salvaged From Norwegian Lake

Rebuilding a Historic Bomber

Karl Kjarsgaard and the team at Halifax 57 Rescue have been working hard on restoring a rare piece of aviation history—an original Handley Page Halifax bomber. The restoration efforts are focused in Canada, where the Bomber Command Museum and a partner shop in Arnprior are bringing this World War II aircraft back to life. One of the central parts of the project is restoring the aircraft’s Bristol Hercules engines. Two engines are already complete and in storage, and work is now focused on engine number three.

This third engine had been in deep storage for over fifty years. It still carries its original Royal Air Force tags and inhibitor cards. The team carefully inspected every component and cylinder, preparing it for future engine runs. If successful, this “pet monster,” as the team affectionately calls it, will help power the completed Halifax restoration in 2025.

The Salvage Operation in Norway

Years earlier, a team traveled to Lake Mjøsa in Norway, where Halifax NA-337 had crashed and sunk to a depth of 700 feet. After an intense recovery effort, the bomber was brought to the surface. However, getting the 20-ton aircraft onto land was a new challenge. Special equipment had to be brought in, and after many delays, the plane was successfully lifted onto the beach.

Karl returned to Norway to see the recovered aircraft. Though weathered and damaged, the bomber was a powerful symbol for him and others. Karl carried with him the hat of his late friend Len Hosey, a Canadian airman, fulfilling a promise to bring Len close to a Halifax once again.

A Difficult But Worthwhile Task

The recovery team built a temporary road out to the wreck. Several heavy machines, including a 50-ton crane and giant tractors, were needed to move the plane. The aircraft was lightened by removing fuel and water from the wings. Finally, after three days of work, Halifax NA-337 was lifted free.

Today, the restored Halifax is on display at the RCAF Memorial Museum in Trenton, Ontario. Through determination, engineering, and community support, the aircraft is once again visible for future generations.

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