Colombian Military Plane Crash Leaves Dozens Injured, Fate of Passengers Unknown
A Colombian Air Force C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff on Monday, March 23, 2026, near Puerto Leguízamo in the Putumayo province, bordering Peru and Ecuador. The accident has left dozens injured, with the full extent of casualties still being determined.
What Happened?
The aircraft, carrying 121 people – 114 passengers and 11 crew members – crashed in a rural area shortly after departing from Puerto Leguízamo. Colombian Air Force commander Carlos Fernando Silva Rueda confirmed the passenger and crew numbers as reported by the BBC. Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez described the incident as a “tragic accident” according to the AP.
Rescue Efforts and Injuries
As of reports from the BBC, 48 people have been recovered from the wreckage with injuries and are receiving medical attention in hospitals. Rescue teams have been dispatched to the crash site to aid the injured and continue searching for survivors. The governor of Putumayo, Jhon Gabriel Molina Acosta, reported at least 15 of those hospitalized are in serious condition as cited by The Guardian. Evacuation of the injured is underway, with some being transported by small motorbikes due to the remote location.
Cause of the Crash and Government Response
The cause of the crash remains unclear, and an investigation is ongoing. President Gustavo Petro expressed hope that fatalities would be minimized and blamed “bureaucratic problems” for hindering modernization efforts of the armed forces’ equipment as reported by the BBC. He also stated that the accident “should not have happened.”
Ongoing Situation
The situation remains fluid as rescue operations continue. Authorities are working to establish the status of all passengers and crew members. The remote location of the crash is presenting challenges to rescue efforts and the delivery of medical aid.