Published on March 25, 2026
The death toll from the recent military plane crash in Colombia has increased to 69, sparking a wave of outrage and questions regarding the aging aircraft’s safety. President Gustavo Petro has directed his anger towards former President Ivan Duque, accusing him of irresponsibly accepting what he described as a “junk” aircraft from the United States.
The crash occurred during a training flight in the central region of Caquetá, where the military aircraft, a C-130 Hercules, went down under unclear circumstances. Search and rescue operations were quickly mobilized, but many bodies were recovered from the wreckage, revealing the tragic extent of the loss.
Petro’s criticism of Duque revolves around the conditions under which Colombia acquired the C-130. The current president argued that such outdated equipment poses significant risks to both personnel and operations, and he accused Duque’s administration of prioritizing deals over safety.
“We need to question whether these kinds of deals are in the best interest of our nation,” Petro stated in a press conference. “Accepting such unreliable aircraft only endangers our troops and undermines our military capabilities.”
The sentiment resonated with many Colombians, who have been increasingly concerned about the capabilities of their military aviation. Despite Colombia’s extensive modernization efforts in recent years, incidents involving outdated or malfunctioning equipment have raised alarms about safety protocols and procurement processes.
In response to the calamity, military officials announced that a full investigation would be launched to assess the cause of the crash and to evaluate the condition of the fleet used forces.
Calls for accountability have intensified, with opposition leaders echoing Petro’s sentiments and demanding greater transparency about military acquisitions. The tragedy has sparked dialogues around defense policies and the need for modernization of the military arsenal to ensure the safety of both troops and civilians.
As Colombia mourns the loss of its servicemen and women, the tragic incident has opened a broader debate on defense spending, international military relations, and the priority of human life over outdated agreements. The investigation and its findings could prove pivotal not only for military reforms but also for future governance in Colombia.