- Colombia plane crash death toll climbs as probe begins
- C-130 Hercules crash leaves dozens injured in Putumayo
Hyderabad, March 24: The Colombia plane crash has claimed 66 lives, with 57 others injured after a military aircraft went down in southern Colombia’s Putumayo region. Local media, citing military sources, reported the rising toll as rescue and investigation efforts continued.
The aircraft involved was a C-130 Hercules transport plane. According to Carlos Silva, commander of the Colombian Aerospace Force, there were 114 passengers and 11 crew members on board. He said an investigative team has been sent to determine the cause of the crash.
Meanwhile, Colombian President Gustavo Petro said that the status of more than 40 people on board is yet to be confirmed. This has added uncertainty to the full extent of the tragedy.
Crash during takeoff and rescue operations underway
Colombian Defence Minister Pedro Sanchez said earlier that the transport plane crashed during takeoff from Puerto Leguizamo. He noted that military units reached the site quickly. However, the cause of the crash has not yet been determined.
Sanchez expressed his “sincere condolences” to the families of the victims. He also said all care protocols have been activated to support those affected. Meanwhile, some injured soldiers have been airlifted to the capital Bogota for treatment.
President Petro also reacted strongly. He said the crash “should never have happened.” He pointed to a lack of modernisation in the armed forces and linked it to “bureaucratic difficulties.” Therefore, the incident has raised concerns about aircraft safety and preparedness.
Aircraft details and ongoing investigation
The aircraft was identified as a Lockheed Martin-built C-130H Hercules. It is an older model that first entered service in March 1965. The plane had been donated to the Colombian Air Force by the US Air Force in September 2020.
Reports said the crash occurred shortly after takeoff near Puerto Leguizamo, close to the Peru border. Flight data and visuals indicated the aircraft went into a steep dive soon after departure. Additional footage showed heavy smoke rising from the wreckage after impact.
Authorities also noted that the crash site was about 3 km from a populated area. Therefore, the incident could have caused even more damage. However, officials have not confirmed all details yet.
The investigation remains ongoing as teams work to establish the exact cause. Meanwhile, rescue operations and medical support continue for the injured.
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