A Bolivian military cargo plane crashed Friday, February 27, 2026, near the international airport in El Alto, the country’s second-largest city. The incident has resulted in at least 15 fatalities and multiple injuries, raising concerns about air safety and prompting a temporary closure of the airport.
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According to the National Fire Department, at least six people were injured in the crash, which occurred as the aircraft attempted to land. Initial reports indicate that approximately 15 vehicles were also damaged.
Witnesses shared videos on social media showing the wreckage of the aircraft, identified as a Hercules C-130 belonging to the Bolivian Air Force (FAB), and photographs of the damaged vehicles. The crash site quickly drew attention as reports emerged that money from the Central Bank of Bolivia (BCB) was scattered across the area.
Plane crash Photo:REDES
Firefighters initially used water cannons to disperse crowds attempting to collect the scattered cash, and police later deployed tear gas to control the situation. The incident highlights the potential for chaos following such a disaster.
The crash took place around 6 p.m. Local time near La Costanera in El Alto, according to local media outlet La Razón. Eyewitnesses reported that the plane came down on a road adjacent to the airport terminal.
Air disaster in Bolivia. Photo:Tomada de redes sociales.
Images circulating online present the fuselage of the aircraft resting on the roadway, with visible damage to its structure. Several private and public transportation vehicles sustained significant damage, with some completely crushed. Smoke was seen rising from the crash site as emergency crews worked to contain any potential fire.
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The aircraft involved, identified as FAB-81, is a Hercules C-130 used exclusively for cargo transport, according to El Deber Bolivia. More than ten vehicles, including trucks and public transportation, were reportedly destroyed in the collision.
Fire crews responded to the scene and began spraying the aircraft with water to prevent a potential explosion. Members of the Bolivian Air Force arrived and discovered the scattered money, leading to the chaotic scene of people attempting to collect it.
Vehicles ended up crushed. Photo:REDES SOCIALES
While the presence of the money suggests the aircraft was carrying valuables, authorities have not yet officially confirmed this information.
Several injured individuals were treated and transported to local hospitals. Police faced traffic congestion in the city, hindering their initial access to the area.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and authorities have not yet released an official report. Defense Minister Marcelo Salinas is expected to provide more information in the coming hours.
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El Alto Airport Closed: First Statement on the Accident
Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) issued a statement confirming that El Alto International Airport in La Paz is temporarily closed following the incident. The airline stated that the closure was ordered by airport authorities due to an accident involving an aircraft on the runway.
BoA clarified that the aircraft involved did not belong to their company. The airline also noted that, while the incident does not directly involve their operations, it could impact flight schedules, potentially causing delays, rescheduling, or cancellations.
Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) issues a statement. Photo:REDES SOCIALES
The airline is monitoring the situation and activating the appropriate protocols to minimize the impact on passengers. Passengers are advised to check the status of their flights through official channels and contact the Call Center or authorized points of sale for updates.
LAURA NATHALIA QUINTERO ARIZA.
NEWSROOM.
