At least 20 people have died and around 25 were injured when a Bolivian Air Force Hercules C-130 cargo plane crashed near the international airport of El Alto, Bolivia, on Friday, February 27, 2026. The initial death toll reported by authorities was 15.
The crash, which occurred as the aircraft was attempting to land, has prompted an immediate investigation into the cause. According to early reports, the plane touched down and was unable to stop, potentially due to icy conditions on the runway following a hailstorm earlier in the day.
A man speaks on the phone at the site of the plane crash in Bolivia. (Photo: REUTERS/Claudia Morales).
The crash occurred in El Alto, the second-most populous city in Bolivia. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene immediately to conduct rescue operations and secure the area. The area surrounding the crash site was cordoned off as authorities began assessing the damage and investigating the incident.
Adding to the chaos, reports indicate that police were forced to use tear gas to disperse individuals attempting to collect banknotes scattered around the crash site. These bills were reportedly being transported by the aircraft. “Around 20 (deaths), perhaps a little more,” stated René Tambo, head of the Homicide Division of the Bolivian Police, to journalists at the scene.
Emergency personnel and Bolivian police authorities at the scene of the crash. (Photo: REUTERS/Claudia Morales).
The Bolivian Navigation and Airports Authority (NAABOL) reported the collision occurred at 6:20 PM local time involving an aircraft originating from the city of Santa Cruz. An investigation into the incident is underway.
Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz expressed his condolences and solidarity with the families of those affected. “Today is a day of much pain for the city of El Alto and the nation due to the tragic accident at the El Alto airport,” Paz posted on social media. “I want to express all my solidarity and condolences to the families of the injured and deceased.” He added that “all members of the government are actively working, assisting the injured and those affected” and that “investigations are underway under the responsibility of the relevant authorities.”
The Bolivian Air Force (FAB) operates a fleet of Hercules C-130 aircraft, used for transport and logistical support. The incident raises questions about aviation safety in the region and the maintenance of aging aircraft. (With information from AFP, EFE and Reuters)
