Colombian Military C-130 Hercules Crashes During Takeoff Near Peruvian Border

A Colombian military C-130 Hercules transport plane crashed during takeoff in Puerto Leguízamo, Putumayo department, near the border with Peru. The aircraft was carrying more than 100 personnel, and at least 48 individuals have been rescued following the incident.

The crash occurred in Puerto Leguízamo, a municipality in the Putumayo department, which borders Peru.

Personnel Onboard and Rescue Efforts

Vice President Francia Márquez Mina initially reported that the aircraft was carrying more than 100 personnel. General Carlos Silva, commander of the Colombian Aerospace Force, later specified the exact figures: 114 passengers and 11 crew members were on board, totaling 125 individuals.

At least 48 people were rescued following the incident, as confirmed by General Silva. Nicolas Ordoñez, an indigenous ranger assisting in search and rescue operations, stated that multiple survivors were transported to a local hospital.

The Crash Sequence

Video footage geolocated by CNN shows the C-130 Hercules taking off from Caucaya Airport, subsequently descending. The crash occurred less than two miles from the airport. Images from the site depicted thick black smoke and flames rising from the wreckage.

Official Statements and Investigation

Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed that the cause of the crash remains undetermined.

Minister Sánchez conveyed condolences to the families affected by the tragedy. President Gustavo Petro also commented on the crash, stating it "should never have happened," and attributed the event in part to a lack of modernization within the armed forces due to "bureaucratic difficulties."

The Aircraft Involved

The C-130H Hercules involved was an older model, first becoming operational in March 1965. It was donated to the Colombian Air Force by the US Air Force in September 2020. These cargo planes are widely utilized globally and are known for their capability to operate in challenging conditions.