Bolivia Plane Crash Kills At Least 20, Scattering Banknotes

At least 20 people were killed and over 30 injured on Friday when a Bolivian Air Force Hercules C-130 transport plane crashed onto a busy highway near La Paz, Bolivia, while attempting to land. The aircraft was carrying a cargo of newly printed banknotes.

What Happened?

The plane, arriving from the city of Santa Cruz, landed and veered off the runway at El Alto International Airport before coming to rest in a nearby field. Defense Minister Marcelo Salinas stated the incident occurred during an attempt to land in challenging weather conditions. A heavy hailstorm and lightning were reported at the time of the crash.

Casualties and Response

Authorities initially reported at least 15 fatalities, but the death toll has since risen to at least 20, with more than 30 injured. Police Colonel Rene Tambo, head of the police homicide division in El Alto, confirmed the updated fatality count. Two of the six crew members were initially unaccounted for, but their status remains unclear.

The crash damaged at least 15 vehicles on the highway. Firefighters extinguished the resulting fire. More than 500 soldiers and 100 police officers were deployed to control the chaotic scene and disperse crowds.

Banknotes Scattered at Crash Site

The plane was transporting newly printed Bolivian currency. The impact scattered banknotes across the crash site, leading to a rush by onlookers attempting to collect the money. Hundreds of people hindered rescue efforts as they scrambled to gather the bills. Police and military personnel ultimately burned the cash boxes, with Central Bank President David Espinoza stating the bills had “no legal value given that they never entered circulation.” The amount of money being transported has not been disclosed.

Investigation Underway

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation. Authorities have temporarily suspended all flights to and from El Alto International Airport.

Key Takeaways

• A Bolivian Air Force C-130 plane carrying newly printed banknotes crashed near La Paz on February 27, 2026.
• At least 20 people have been confirmed dead, and over 30 injured.
• The crash occurred during an attempted landing in adverse weather conditions.
• The scattered banknotes led to a chaotic scene as people attempted to collect the money.
• An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash.