PLANE SMASH At least 66 killed after military plane crashes into jungle in Colombia as horror footage show burning wreckage
At least 66 people have been confirmed dead after a military transport aircraft crashed into dense jungle in southern Colombia, in what officials describe as one of the country’s deadliest aviation disasters in recent years. The aircraft, a Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules, was carrying 125 people — including military personnel — when it went down shortly after takeoff.
The crash happened near the remote town of Puerto Leguízamo in Colombia’s Putumayo region, close to the border with Peru. Early reports indicate the plane had only just taken off when it appeared to experience technical problems. Witnesses said the aircraft briefly climbed before suddenly losing altitude and plunging toward the rainforest below.
Video circulating online appears to show the large military transport struggling to gain height before dropping out of the sky and disappearing into the thick jungle canopy. Authorities believe the crash site lies just a few miles from a populated area, but the rugged terrain and dense vegetation have made access difficult for rescue teams.
Colombia’s armed forces confirmed that at least 66 people were killed in the incident, though officials warned the death toll could rise as search and rescue operations continue. Air force commander Fernando Silva said there were 114 passengers and 11 crew members on board at the time of the crash, many of them soldiers.
Rescue efforts remain underway, but emergency crews are facing significant obstacles. Thick jungle, limited infrastructure, and unpredictable weather conditions are slowing progress as teams search for survivors and recover victims. Authorities have not yet confirmed how many people may still be missing.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Initial witness accounts suggest a possible mechanical failure during the critical moments after takeoff, though officials have not ruled out other possibilities. Investigators are expected to examine maintenance records, flight data, and any available recordings to determine what caused the disaster.
Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez described the crash as a “tragic accident” and said all available resources have been mobilized to assist victims and their families. He also urged the public to avoid speculation while investigators work to determine the facts.
President Gustavo Petro expressed condolences to the families of those killed and raised concerns about delays in modernizing military equipment. He stated that safety upgrades should not be postponed when lives are at stake and indicated that accountability would follow if standards were not met.
The C-130 Hercules, first introduced in the 1950s, has long served as a backbone of military transport operations worldwide. Colombia has operated the aircraft since the late 1960s. While widely respected for its durability and versatility, aging fleets can present increasing maintenance challenges over time.
As rescue teams continue their work, Colombia is mourning the loss of dozens of lives while awaiting answers about what led to the devastating crash.