Colombia: At least 66 people were killed after a military aircraft belonging to the Colombian Air Force crashed shortly after takeoff in the Amazon region of Colombia on March 24, according to reports.
The aircraft, identified as a Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules, was carrying 125 people, including military personnel, when it went down near Puerto Leguízamo, close to the border with Peru.
Crash moments after takeoff
According to initial reports, the aircraft crashed just minutes after takeoff. Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to the remote crash site in the dense Amazon region.
Officials had earlier stated that the plane was carrying 114 passengers and 11 crew members. The full extent of casualties is still being verified, and the death toll may change as rescue and recovery operations continue.
Local media reports indicated that the aircraft may have suffered a severe impact near the end of the runway during takeoff. The force of the crash reportedly caused structural damage, with one of the wings striking a tree before the aircraft burst into flames.
Explosion and fire at crash site
Eyewitness visuals shared by local media showed thick black smoke billowing from the crash site, indicating a massive fire following the impact. Reports also suggested that the crash may have triggered explosions, possibly due to fuel or onboard equipment.
Rescue operations have been complicated by the remote location and dense forest cover, making access difficult for emergency teams.
Concerns over ageing aircraft
The C-130 Hercules, first introduced in the 1950s, has been widely used by military forces worldwide, including in Colombia since the late 1960s. While many units have undergone upgrades, concerns have persisted over ageing fleets and maintenance challenges.
The incident comes shortly after another crash involving a similar aircraft in Bolivia, raising broader concerns about the safety and upkeep of older military transport planes in the region.
President Petro calls for accountability
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Colombian President Gustavo Petro criticised delays in modernising the country’s military aviation fleet.
“I will grant no further delays; it is the lives of our young people that are at stake,” Petro said in a statement. He warned that officials responsible for administrative delays could face removal if they fail to address the issue.
The President also raised concerns about possible irregularities in aircraft maintenance and construction, stating that authorities would investigate the matter thoroughly, including identifying any contractors involved.
Investigation underway
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Factors such as mechanical failure, maintenance lapses, and operational conditions are expected to be examined.
Conclusion
The tragic crash has resulted in significant loss of life and renewed scrutiny over the safety of ageing military aircraft. As rescue efforts continue and investigations progress, the incident is likely to prompt urgent reforms in aviation safety and fleet modernisation in Colombia.