Bogotá – The death toll from a Colombian military plane crash that occurred shortly after takeoff on Monday has risen to 69, making it one of the deadliest air accidents in Colombia’s recent history.
Published
The C-130 Hercules aircraft crashed one kilometer from the runway where it had just taken off, in the Amazonian department of Putumayo, near the border with Peru.
The plane was carrying 126 passengers and ammunition, according to the latest reports. In addition to the fatalities, 57 military personnel were injured, as were civilians who came to assist and were affected by the explosion of ammunition in the subsequent fire.
Images on social media show people forming human chains to pour water on the burning aircraft and residents evacuating the injured by motorcycle.
Political Fallout and Aircraft Age Concerns
Colombian President Gustavo Petro has accused his predecessor, Iván Duque (2018-2022), of putting an “old wreck” – a 1983-built aircraft – into service.
“Why did you buy such an old plane? Who advised you on such absurdity?” he wrote on X, stating he had requested the replacement of the C-130 Hercules a year ago.
Duque responded by calling Petro “vile and unintelligent” and urged him to conduct an investigation that considers the aircraft’s weight at takeoff and the condition of the slight airport’s runway.
Ongoing Investigation and Security Context
An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident. The Ministry of Defense has ruled out the possibility of an attack by guerrilla groups operating in the coca-growing region.
FAQ
What caused the plane crash?
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
How many people were on board the aircraft?
There were 126 people on board, including passengers and crew.
What type of aircraft was involved?
The aircraft was a C-130 Hercules.
