66 Killed as Colombian Air Force C-130 Aircraft Crashes After Takeoff in Putumayo
In yet another major aviation tragedy, at least 66 people lost their lives on Monday after a Colombian Air Force transport aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff in the southern part of the country.
The ill-fated plane, a Lockheed Martin-built Hercules C-130, was carrying 125 passengers and crew members when it went down moments after becoming airborne, authorities confirmed.
The accident occurred near Puerto Leguizamo in Colombia’s Putumayo department, close to the border with Peru and Ecuador.
According to Defence Minister Pedro Sanchez, the aircraft had been transporting military personnel when it crashed approximately one to two kilometres away from the runway during the initial phase of flight.
Initial reports indicate that the aircraft caught fire soon after impact, triggering explosions as ammunition being carried onboard detonated in the blaze.
Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from the wreckage, with visuals from the crash site showing extensive destruction in the remote jungle region, as stated by Al Jazeera news.
Colombian military officials stated that there was no indication of any hostile attack or sabotage leading to the crash.
Authorities confirmed that the aircraft was considered airworthy before departure and was operated by a qualified and experienced crew. Investigators are examining technical factors and other possible causes behind the tragedy.
The Colombian Air Force said that 114 passengers and 11 crew members were on board the aircraft, most of them members of the armed forces, while several survivors were rescued and shifted to hospitals for treatment.
Emergency teams and residents rushed to assist in rescue operations despite the difficult terrain and limited accessibility of the crash site.
The incident has been described as one of the deadliest aviation disasters in the history of the Colombian Air Force.
Colombia’s leadership expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, while aircraft manufacturer Lockheed Martin conveyed condolences and assured full cooperation with authorities conducting the investigation.
The tragedy has once again highlighted concerns about aviation safety and the challenges associated with operating military transport aircraft in difficult geographical conditions.
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash and prevent similar incidents in the future.
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