A Colombian military plane crashed shortly after takeoff on March 23, 2026, in Puerto Leguizamo, Putumayo, resulting in at least one confirmed death and numerous injuries. The Lockheed Martin Hercules C-130 was carrying 121 individuals, including 110 soldiers and 11 crew members, when the incident occurred approximately 2 kilometers from the airport.
Rescue operations have successfully retrieved 77 people, who are now hospitalized. However, the status of 43 passengers remains undetermined, raising concerns about the potential for more fatalities.
The Colombian Air Force has mobilized two planes equipped with 74 beds to transport the injured to medical facilities. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, with authorities working to gather more information.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro expressed his hope that there would be no further fatalities, calling the incident “horrific” and emphasizing that it should never have happened. He also criticized bureaucratic delays in military modernization plans that may have contributed to the accident.
Pedro Sánchez, the Colombian Minister of Defense, confirmed the tragic nature of the accident, stating, “This tragic accident occurred in Puerto Leguizamo.” He added that the exact number of victims and the causes of the crash have yet to be determined.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety of military aircraft in Colombia, which has been acquiring Hercules C-130 planes since the late 1960s. As investigations continue, the nation awaits further updates on the situation.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of casualties and the specific circumstances leading to the crash. The Colombian government is under pressure to provide clarity and ensure the safety of its military operations.
