A devastating military plane crash in southern Colombia has claimed the lives of at least 66 people, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters in the country’s recent history.
The accident occurred on March 23, 2026, when a Colombian Air Force C-130 Hercules transport aircraft went down shortly after takeoff from Puerto Leguízamo, a remote town in the Amazonian province of Putumayo, near the border with Peru.
A Flight That Ended in Disaster
According to officials, the aircraft was carrying more than 120 people, including army personnel, Air Force members, and police officers. Shortly after takeoff, the plane encountered trouble and crashed just a few kilometers from the runway.
Preliminary reports suggest that one of the aircraft’s wings may have clipped a tree during ascent, triggering a catastrophic سقوط and fire. Some sources also indicate that onboard munitions may have ignited upon impact, intensifying the blaze.
Rising Death Toll and Rescue Efforts
Initial reports had indicated a lower number of casualties, but as rescue teams reached the crash site and continued recovery operations, the death toll climbed sharply to 66. Dozens of others were injured, many of whom were rushed to nearby hospitals, while several were later transferred to larger medical facilities for specialized care.
At least four people remain missing, and search operations are still ongoing in the dense jungle terrain surrounding the crash site.
Local residents were among the first to respond, helping pull survivors from the wreckage and transport the injured to safety despite the challenges posed by the remote location and limited infrastructure.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. While the exact reason remains unclear, early indications point to a technical or operational failure rather than any form of external attack.
Colombia’s defense officials have confirmed that the aircraft was considered airworthy and that the crew was properly trained, raising further questions about what went wrong in the critical moments after takeoff.
National Shock and Political Reactions
The tragedy has sent shockwaves across Colombia, prompting an outpouring of grief and condolences for the victims and their families. President Gustavo Petro described the incident as a “horrific accident” and renewed calls for modernizing the country’s military aviation fleet.
The crash has also sparked political debate, with some leaders pointing to delays and bureaucratic hurdles in upgrading aging aircraft, while others have called for accountability and transparency in the investigation.
A Grim Reminder
This disaster stands as one of the most severe military aviation accidents in Colombia in recent years, highlighting the risks faced by personnel during routine operations and the urgent need for continued investment in aviation safety.
As recovery efforts continue and investigators work to determine the exact cause, the nation mourns the loss of dozens of service members whose mission ended in tragedy.
