What happened
A group of five Consolidated B-24E Liberator bombers was conducting a flight from Wendover Air Force Base to Pocatello, Idaho. While maintaining an altitude of 11,100 feet, the aircraft registered 42-7183, which was positioned third in the formation, began to fall behind the lead planes. The pilot of this aircraft increased engine power in an attempt to close the distance and rejoin the formation line. During this maneuver, the tail section of 42-7183 struck the left wing of the preceding aircraft, registered 42-7408. The impact was severe enough to shear off the number one engine of 42-7408. Both aircraft subsequently lost control and descended rapidly into the terrain, where they crashed and ignited in a large explosion. All 25 occupants across both airframes were killed in the incident.
Findings
Official investigations determined that the pilot of 42-7183 bore full responsibility for the accident due to a failure to adhere to standard formation discipline during the training exercise. However, investigators also noted that significant icing conditions in the region reduced the performance capabilities of the aircraft, acting as a contributing factor to the event.