Colombian Plane Crash Kills at Least 66 After Takeoff Tragedy

tro also, At least 66 people have died after a devastating plane crash involving a Colombian Air Force aircraft shortly after takeoff in the southern region of the country. The incident occurred near Puerto Leguízamo in Putumayo province. It left dozens injured and raised fresh concerns about military aviation safety.

The aircraft, a US made C 130 Hercules used mainly for transporting troops, carried 114 army personnel and 11 crew members. The plane went down moments after departure. Witnesses reported thick smoke and scattered debris across the rural crash site.

Rescue Efforts and Ongoing Investigation

Emergency teams responded quickly to the scene. Rescuers searched through the wreckage for survivors. Local media footage showed soldiers and civilians working together under difficult conditions. Some injured victims were transported to nearby hospitals on motorbikes because of limited road access.

Colombian Defence Minister Pedro Sánchez described the incident as a deeply tragic event for the nation. He explained that the aircraft crashed during takeoff while transporting security personnel. Officials reported that a fire broke out on board. The fire triggered the detonation of ammunition carried on the aircraft, which worsened the disaster.

Military sources confirmed that many of the victims were soldiers. The casualties also included air force personnel and police officers. Authorities initially confirmed at least 66 deaths. However, they continue to search the area and have not ruled out more casualties.

Meanwhile, the crash site near Colombia’s border with Peru has filled with emergency vehicles and military trucks. Recovery teams continue to work around the clock. Images from the scene show a large plume of smoke rising into the sky, revealing the scale of the destruction.

President Gustavo Petro responded to the tragedy with a message of grief and concern. He described the crash as an event that should not have happened. Petro also, pointed to delays in modernising military equipment as a possible cause. He also called for urgent action to prevent similar incidents. According to him, the country must protect the lives of young service members.

Authorities have now launched a full investigation into the crash. Investigators are examining several possible causes. Early reports point to the onboard fire as a major factor. However, officials continue to assess whether mechanical failure, human error, or other issues contributed to the crash.

This disaster stands as one of the deadliest aviation accidents involving Colombia’s Air Force in recent years. It also follows another C 130 Hercules crash in Bolivia last month that killed at least 20 people. As a result, concerns about the safety of such aircraft in the region have increased.

As Colombia mourns the loss of dozens of military personnel, attention has shifted to accountability and prevention. Authorities aim to uncover the exact cause of the crash. They also plan to implement measures that will reduce the risk of future tragedies.