DefenseLockheed C-130H Hercules crashes on landing in Bolivia, at least 15 dead
A Bolivian Air Force Lockheed C-130H Hercules crashed while landing at El Alto International Airport on Friday evening, killing at least 15 people and injuring more than 30, according to local authorities and international media reports.
The accident occurred at around 18:15 local time as the aircraft was arriving in El Alto. Officials said the four-engine turboprop overshot runway 28, left the airfield perimeter and struck vehicles in a high-traffic area near Costanera Avenue. The aircraft was destroyed.
The Bolivian defense ministry confirmed that the C-130H was transporting banknotes destined for the Central Bank of Bolivia. The air force commander said there were eight crew members on board, including flight crew and cargo personnel. The condition of those on board has not been fully detailed in initial statements.
Bolivia’s health ministry reported at least 31 people injured and issued an urgent appeal for blood donations. El Alto International Airport was temporarily closed following the crash.
Video footage circulated on social media showed the aircraft wreckage near damaged vehicles, with emergency services and police at the scene. Authorities said police used tear gas to disperse crowds after individuals allegedly attempted to take banknotes scattered at the crash site. The government stated that the transported currency had no legal value because it had not been issued by the central bank and lacked serial numbers.
Witnesses cited adverse weather conditions at the time of the accident, including heavy hail and lightning, though officials have not confirmed whether weather played a role. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the runway overrun.
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