Colombia: 90 dead after Air Force plane crash

Published at: 23/03/2026 02:59 PM

This Monday, a Hercules-type aircraft belonging to the Colombian Air Force (FAC) suffered a serious accident in the town of Puerto Leguízamo, department of Putumayo. Although official figures are in the process of being verified, preliminary reports from the local press suggest that the accident could have left at least 90 fatalities.

The aircraft, which was carrying out troop transport functions for the Public Forces, crashed during the takeoff maneuver. Immediately after the event, military units and emergency teams moved to the scene to begin rescue efforts and secure the area.

The Minister of Defense, Pedro Arnulfo Sánchez, expressed his dismay through his official channels, describing the event as a “profoundly painful event for the country”.

“All care protocols for victims and their families have been activated, as well as the corresponding investigation to determine the causes of this tragic accident,” said the head of the Defense portfolio.

Sánchez emphasized that, for the time being, the authorities are working hard to specify the exact number of people affected and the technical circumstances that caused the aircraft to crash. He also called on public opinion and the media to avoid speculation and wait for official reports, out of respect for the grief of family members.

The National Government and the Military Forces extend their sincerest condolences to the loved ones of those who were affected in this line of duty.

Mazo News Team