Noorduyn Norseman

The Noorduyn Norseman is a large bush plane that was produced in decent numbers (903) from 1935 until 1959. It was designed by Robert B.C. Noorduyn.

The Norseman is becoming somewhat rare in bush country, but can still be seen ocassionally. It features the same Pratt & Whitney R-1340 radial as the deHavilland Otter and is roughly comparable to the Otter, though not as refined.

The Noorduyn Norseman has obtained some infamy in that Glenn Miller, popular Big Band director, disappeared over the English Channel, December 15, 1944. To this day, rumors persist over the exact nature of Miller’s disappearence but two things can likely be ruled out: (1) Miller wasn’t abducted by space aliens, and (2) the Norseman did not fail because of design flaws.

Like the Otter, the Noosreman is a little too much of an airplane for most private owners. It is typically operated in a commercial or military capacity.

The Canadian Armed Forces used the Noorduyn Norseman in the light utility transport role until it was replaced by the deHavilland Otter in 1953.

Catch a close-up of this Norseman as it does a low fly-over.