What happened
The incident occurred while the crew was returning to their base following a night mission conducted on the western front. During the return leg, the aircraft encountered deteriorating weather conditions characterized by snowfall, strong winds, and significant icing. Visibility dropped to between 30-50 metres as the airplane accumulated ice. The accumulation of ice led to a loss of control, causing the aircraft to crash in the vicinity of the village of Pola. Upon impact, the airframe burst into flames.
Findings
The official investigation identified the primary factor in the accident as the loss of control resulting from icing conditions. The pilot was killed in the crash, while the navigator sustained injuries.