Story perspectives

Colombian Air Force Plane Crash: 125 Onboard, Investigation Ongoing

3/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Colombian Air Force C-130 Hercules transport plane, an older model donated by the United States in 2020, crashed shortly after takeoff from Puerto Leguizamo with 125 personnel.
Defence Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed the accident and said the cause is under investigation.
Conflicting reports indicate 48 to 71 people have been rescued.
President Gustavo Petro criticized delays in military modernization and called for accountability.
Presidential candidates offered condolences ahead of the election.

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Story summary

Colombian Air Force C-130 Hercules transport plane, an older model donated by the United States in 2020, crashed shortly after takeoff from Puerto Leguizamo with 125 personnel.
Defence Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed the accident and said the cause is under investigation.
Conflicting reports indicate 48 to 71 people have been rescued.
President Gustavo Petro criticized delays in military modernization and called for accountability.
Presidential candidates offered condolences ahead of the election.