Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 Sparviero accident at Spain, Spain, 23 Mar 1938 (MM28-25)
On March 23, 1938, a Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 Sparviero (registration MM28-25) operated by Regia Aeronautica was involved in an aviation accident near Spain, Spain in flight. 17 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control following an in-flight collision after the second aircraft has been shot down by antiaircraft fire. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Probable cause
Loss of control following an in-flight collision after the second aircraft has been shot down by antiaircraft fire.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
The three engine aircraft was performing a bombing mission on behalf of the Spanish Air Force. While cruising over Catalonia, the aircraft collided with another SM.79 that was hit by Flak. It entered an uncontrolled descent and crashed in a huge explosion. All 17 occupants were killed.
Probable cause (official findings): Loss of control following an in-flight collision after the second aircraft has been shot down by antiaircraft fire.