Accident
On the morning of the accident, a crew consisting of one test pilot, one radio navigator, and two engineers departed from Naples-Capodichino on a local test flight. During the flight, the twin-engine aircraft experienced a structural failure, resulting in the detachment of the tail section. Subsequently, the aircraft became uncontrollable and entered a dive, ultimately crashing on the slope of a mountain near Gragnano, approximately 27 kilometers southeast of Naples. The impact destroyed the aircraft and all four occupants were killed.
Investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and flight data to determine the cause of the structural failure. The official investigation concluded that the exact cause of the accident could not be determined with certainty. However, it was believed that the tail separated as a consequence of in-flight vibrations. No further details regarding the nature of these vibrations or contributing factors were provided in the official findings.
Probable Cause
The official report states that the probable cause was not definitively established, but it is believed the tail separated due to in-flight vibrations.